11/02/2026
FEBRUARY 11 | FEAST OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES
World Day of the Sick
Today, we honor Our Lady of Lourdes, recalling her loving apparitions to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 at Lourdes, France. Appearing to a humble and sickly young girl, the Lady revealed herself with the words, “I am the Immaculate Conception,” confirming the Church's teaching and drawing the world back to faith, humility, and prayer.
Through Bernadette's obedience, a spring of water flowed from the grotto—becoming a sign of God's healing grace. Lourdes has since become a place of pilgrimage, prayer, and hope, where countless people have encountered spiritual renewal and healing, and where the suffering are reminded that God has not abandoned them.
This feast also marks the World Day of the Sick, established by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1992, inviting the Church to pray for the sick and to recognize the healing ministry of caregivers. For 2026, the theme chosen by the Holy Father is: “The compassion of the Samaritan: Loving by bearing the pain of others.” This reminds us that true Christian love is shown through closeness, mercy, and shared suffering—especially with those who are ill, poor, lonely, or forgotten.
On this day, we lift up all who are sick, the elderly, healthcare workers, caregivers, and all who accompany them with compassion—continuing the healing mission of Christ.
PRAYER
O loving Mother of Lourdes, comfort of the sick and refuge of the suffering, intercede for all who are burdened by illness in body, mind, or spirit. Strengthen caregivers and health workers with compassion and patience. Grant healing according to God's will, and renew our hearts with faith, hope, and love. May we always see the face of Christ in those who suffer.
Amen.
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.
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Sources:
1. Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Michael Catholic Parishes of Robertson County TN | Story of Lourdes and Saint Bernadette - https://ollsm.com/story-of-lourdes
2. Franciscan Media | Our Lady of Lourdes - https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/our-lady-of-lourdes/
3. Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland | World Day of the Sick - https://portlanddiocese.org/world-day-sick
4. Image from Pinterest and National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Media, Quezon City