Rome: On the World Day of the Sick and the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, Pope Leo XIV met with a group of sick people at the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens on Tuesday.
After his Wednesday General Audience, the Pope went to the grotto where several sick individuals had been waiting for him. The day, marked each year on February 11, is dedicated to praying for those who suffer from illness and for those who care for them.
Speaking to the group, Pope said it was a beautiful day that reminds everyone of the closeness of Mary, whom he described as a mother who always walks with her children. He said the Blessed Mother teaches people the meaning of suffering, the meaning of love, and what it means to entrust one’s life into the hands of the Lord.
Pope thanked the sick who had made the effort to be present before the Blessed Mother for the moment of prayer. He acknowledged the challenges many of them face and encouraged them to find strength in faith.
Before giving his Apostolic Blessing, Pope Leo prayed that the Lord would bless all who are sick, not only on this special day but always. He also remembered doctors, nurses and all health workers who care for the suffering with dedication and compassion.
The simple and heartfelt encounter at the grotto reflected the Church’s closeness to the sick and its call to see suffering not as something meaningless, but as a place where love and trust in God can grow.