Pope: Healthcare must reveal God’s compassion to those who suffer

Vatican News

Pope Leo XIV has sent cordial greetings and the assurance of his spiritual closeness to everyone taking part in a Conference on Health, dedicated to “A holistic approach to health in the Caritas Confederation,” taking place in Castel Gandolfo on June 23-25.

Sent on Wednesday, the Pope’s message was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

He prayed that the group’s work “may contribute to a new impetus for cooperation and solidarity,” and encouraged participants in their efforts “to improve healthcare to the sick, based on Gospel values.”

Recalling that Scripture often presents Jesus as the Divine Physician, Pope Leo noted that Christ brings health to the infirm by healing mental, physical, and spiritual afflictions that cause suffering, humiliation, and isolation.

The Pope also pointed to his encyclical Magnifica humanitas, in which he affirmed the “dignity that belongs to every human being simply by virtue of existing, of having been willed, created and loved by God.”

That dignity, he said, “transcends each person’s individual circumstances.” By restoring health, Jesus reveals the inherent dignity of every person and points humanity toward eternal salvation in God.

Pope Leo XIV encouraged participants to continue contributing to the mission of the Church, as she proclaims the Kingdom of God through her presence among the sick.

“Salvation is not an abstract idea,” he said, “but begins with the concrete action of healing the wounds of those who suffer.”

The Pope concluded his message by expressing his hopes that the work of Caritas and its affiliates will be directed toward “bringing God’s compassion and goodness to those most in need.”