Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle anoints the sick and frail during a Mass to mark World Day of the Sick at the Holy Spirit Parish Church in Sta. Cruz, Manila, Feb 11, 2013.
MANILA, Feb. 11, 2013— Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle said the Church should care not only to ailing people but also to those who are suffering from the ills of the society.
In his homily Monday for the World Day of the Sick, he said the Church is called to become fully involved in addressing concerns essential to solving the country’s social problems.
“I hope the church will not only focus in caring for those who are sick but also attend to those who are also suffering from other forms of sickness,” Tagle said.
He cited for example the members of dysfunctional families and the young people who have gone astray. “They also have sickness deep inside,” said Tagle.
From women who are victims of violence, to ordinary workers who are not treated well and not getting the right pay, “they also have many illnesses,” he said.
“Our society, until now, is still looking for a way to resolve injustices and lack of truth. The country has many ills and wounds,” Tagle added.
“Even our environment is also wounded,” he lamented. “Sickness has so many people are suffering from it,” said Tagle.
Hundreds of faithful attended the 21st World Day of the Sick, which is celebrated every Feb.11, held at the Holy Spirit Parish Church in Sta. Cruz, Manila.
The celebration is for both the patients themselves and their families, for health workers and professionals, and the faithful to engage in prayer for those who are sick.
During the Mass, the cardinal led some priests in the anointing several ill patients and pray for their spiritual and physical strength.
Tagle also encouraged the people to give their lives for others, especially those who are sick and suffering, citing Jesus as an example of a person who helped total strangers without condition.
“Let us show our love and care for our fellowmen who are needy,” Tagle said. (CBCPNews)
