By Emmanuel Eko, CSN Media
To commemorate the World Day of the Sick, the Chaplain of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent De Paul Hospital, Kubwa, Rev. Fr. Peter Danladi has called on Catholic faithful to re-examine and re-evaluate their trust in God.
The clergy made this call in his homily during the Holy Mass to mark the 30th World Day of the Sick organised by the Health Department of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) at the Daughters of Charity Hospital, Kubwa, on Sunday, February 13, 2022.
Citing the teachings of Jesus Christ on not putting trust in men, Fr. Danladi strongly condemned the increasing attitude of Christians placing their trust in man. He reminded the faithful that in one way or the other, they have been disappointed in their lives. He however noted that “we are all special children of God called to build our faith in God. As you journey through life, you will see that God’s grace has prevailed over your lives. There is therefore no solution to your problems outside God.”
The cleric further reassured the sick that the Church is with them in their difficulties, they have not been abandoned. Reiterating Pope Francis’ message for the 2022 World Day of the Sick, he encouraged the sick to never lose hope while assuring them of ceaseless prayers.
Also speaking at the occasion, the CBCN Secretary on Health, Dr. Emmanuel Okechukwu observed that this year, the Holy Father, through his message, calls on us all to “be merciful even as your heavenly father is merciful”. He noted that it is a double-edged message, addressing both those who care for the sick and medical personnel who manage the sick.
Dr. Okechukwu further explained that every care giver, doctor, nurse, laboratory scientist and other health personnel should see every patient as another Jesus Christ who is in need, who is suffering, and should therefore provide care with compassion, mercy and love. He called on administrators, governors, presidents, corporate bodies and world leaders to support healthcare workers by providing adequate healthcare equipment.
In the spirit of solidarity, the Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN) presented gifts to patients in the various wards for their use within the healthcare facility to enhance their recuperation.
