Pope Francis prayed for all those who lack access to medical treatment around the world, especially in war-torn countries such as Myanmar, Palestine, Israel and Ukraine.
Francesca Merlo
Pope Francis reminded the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square during Angelus Sunday that February 11th is World Day of the Sick, saying, “This year we will focus on the importance of human relationships in illness.'' “Gender is in the spotlight.”
In this connection, the Pope said that the first thing we need when we are sick is “the intimacy of loved ones,” and not just the intimacy of medical personnel or God.
“We are all called to be close to those who are suffering,” the pope stressed, expressing the closeness “and of the whole Church” toward the sick and infirm.
Pope Francis went on to stress that as this day is being celebrated, “we cannot remain silent about the fact that today there are so many people who are denied the right to care and, therefore, the right to life.” .
“I think about people living in extreme poverty. But I also think about war zones, where basic human rights are violated every day. It's intolerable. Pope Francis then prayed for Ukraine, Palestine, and Israel, and then prayed again for Myanmar. In Myanmar, where the pope prayed for Rohingya Muslims during a general audience on February 7, they continue to face extreme violence and ethnic persecution.
