Welcome to a special morning on the Fifth Sunday of Lent, where His Eminence Archbishop Rino Fisichella presided over Holy Mass in St. Peter’s Square in honor of the Jubilee for the Sick and the World of Health.
Pope Francis himself joined the Jubilee pilgrimage of the sick and healthcare workers. Before addressing the pilgrims and faithful in the square, he received the sacrament of reconciliation in St. Peter’s Basilica and passed through the Holy Door.
Below, we present the text of the Holy Father’s prepared homily, as read by Archbishop Rino Fisichella:
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In times of darkness and despair, God invites us to see the new beginnings springing forth, as mentioned in the book of Isaiah. Despite exile and destruction, the Lord calls for unity and a new way of encountering Him through conversion, justice, and mercy.
Similarly, in the Gospel, we witness Jesus showing compassion and offering a fresh start to a woman condemned by society. These stories remind us that God is ever close, especially in times of illness and trials. He invites us to trust in His presence and to be beacons of light for one another.
Dear healthcare workers, as you care for the vulnerable, see each patient as a gift from God and an opportunity to renew your lives with gratitude and compassion. Embrace the presence of the sick as a chance to heal and purify your hearts.
For those who are sick, like myself, let us embrace our dependence on others as a school of love and gratitude. Through suffering, we strengthen our faith and grow in humanity, sharing in the pain of others on our journey towards holiness.
Let us not shy away from suffering or exclude the frail from our lives. Instead, let us embrace it as an opportunity to grow together and cultivate hope through the enduring love of God.
