In his Message for the 33rd World Day of the Sick, Pope Francis offered a profound reflection on the enduring presence of God among those who suffer, emphasizing His nearness through "encounter, gift, and sharing." Pope also announced the postponement of the solemn celebration of this observance, typically held every three years, to 2026.

Pope Francis began by acknowledging the deep struggles faced by those battling severe illnesses and the financial and emotional toll such conditions impose. He posed heartfelt questions: “How can we be strong when our bodies are prey to severe, debilitating illnesses? How can we show strength when we witness the sufferings of loved ones who feel powerless to help us?”

While true hope “does not disappoint,” Pope recognized the challenges of maintaining confidence in God amid real-life trials. He noted that moments of suffering reveal our need for divine assistance and the gift of God’s Spirit, which sustains us in our weakness.

Pope invited the faithful to reflect on three particular ways God remains close to those in pain:

Recalling Jesus’ instruction to His disciples to proclaim to the sick that “the Kingdom of God has come near to you,” Pope Francis explained that illness can serve as an opportunity for a transformative encounter with the Lord. This encounter provides a solid foundation amid life’s storms, reminding us we are never alone.

Pope Francis described God’s closeness as a gift that suffering reveals. It is in moments of pain that we recognize hope as a divine grace to be nurtured through faithfulness. He underscored that only through Christ’s resurrection does human suffering find its place within the vast horizon of eternity, offering glimpses of light amid life’s trials.

Finally, Pope highlighted how God’s closeness manifests in the shared experiences of suffering. He observed how caring for the sick and being present with those in need often teach profound lessons of faith, hope, and love. He encouraged all to treasure the grace-filled encounters that take place in caregiving, describing them as “rays of light” that bring strength and reveal life’s deeper meaning.

Pope Francis reserved a special word for the sick, emphasizing their vital role in the Jubilee Year and describing their collective journey as a hymn of dignity, a song of hope.” He expressed gratitude for their witness, assuring them of his prayers and blessing.

The World Day of the Sick is traditionally observed annually on February 11, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, with a solemn celebration held every three years at a Marian shrine. However, in light of the Jubilee Year, Pope Francis has postponed the solemn celebration to 2026 at the Marian Sanctuary of the Virgin of Chapi in Arequipa, Peru.

For 2025, the observance will continue at the diocesan level on February 11, alongside special Jubilee events for the sick and health care workers on April 5-6 and a Jubilee for People with Disabilities on April 28-29.

This decision was announced by the Dicasteries for the Promotion of Integral Human Development and Evangelization, underscoring the Pope’s intention to align these celebrations with the Jubilee’s overarching themes of hope and renewal.

Through his message, Pope Francis continues to offer hope and solidarity to the suffering, reminding the faithful of God’s unfailing presence and the transformative power of faith, even in life’s darkest moments.