The 35th World Day of the Sick will be celebrated on 11 February 2027, the liturgical memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lourdes.
The theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV is “‘They lowered him on the stretcher in front of Jesus’ (Lk 5:19): The role of the community in caring for every person.”
The theme highlights the responsibility of all Christian communities and civil society to care for the sick, responding to their vulnerabilities and suffering.
The Holy Father refers to chapter 5, verse 19 of the Gospel of Luke, written by the patron saint of physicians and healthcare workers. In this passage, a community comes together to bring a paralysed man to the wellspring of physical and spiritual healing.
The story illustrates our baptismal vocation to live the commandment of mutual love: love your neighbour and care for them.
This reflection highlights the vital role of parishes and Christian communities in caring for people who are alone, older people and those who suffer.
Established by Pope John Paul II in 1992, World Day of the Sick unites the Catholic Church every 11 February in a worldwide celebration dedicated to prayer, compassion and ministry with the sick and those who care for them. This day encourages everyone to reflect on the profound dignity of human life and to offer support to those facing health problems.