The Our Lady of Grace Catholic Hospital at Breman Asikuma in the Asikuma Odoben Brakwa District of the Central Region hosted the celebration of the 34th World Day of the Sick, bringing together patients, caregivers, clergy, chiefs, and civic leaders.
Pope Leo XIV announced the theme, “The compassion of the Samaritan: loving by bearing the pain of the other,” for the 34th World Day of the Sick celebration across the globe.
Centered on the Gospel image of the Good Samaritan, the chosen theme emphasizes a form of love that is expressed through action. By tending to the wounded man left by robbers, the Samaritan becomes a model of genuine care for one’s neighbour.
This message underlines that true love requires tangible acts of presence and solidarity, inviting us to share in the suffering of others—particularly the sick, and especially those who also endure poverty, isolation, and loneliness.
Presiding over the celebration, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cape Coast, Very Rev. Bonaventure Annan, reminded the faithful that Christ walks with us in our trials. He added that though illness is painful, it is also a pathway to deeper hope and trust in God.
Speaking to Adom News, the Nurses Manager of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Hospital, Mrs. Anastasia Ampah Korsah, urged all health workers to consider their job as a calling from God to save humanity.
He also read Pope Leo’s message, which in part says: “Dear brothers and sisters, the true remedy for humanity’s wounds is a style of life based on fraternal love, which has its root in love of God. I genuinely hope that our Christian lifestyle will always reflect this fraternal, ‘Samaritan’ spirit – one that is welcoming, courageous, committed, and supportive, rooted in our union with God and our faith in Jesus Christ. Enkindled by this divine love, we will surely be able to give of ourselves for the good of all who suffer, especially our brothers and sisters who are sick, elderly, or afflicted.
Let us raise our prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Health of the Sick, asking her to assist all who suffer and are in need of compassion, consolation, and a listening ear.
Let us seek her intercession with this ancient prayer, that has been invoked in families for those living with illness and pain,” encouraging all to become “pilgrims of hope.” The Holy Father reminded the faithful that suffering can unite us in compassion, creating bonds of trust and love that reflect Christ’s healing presence.
