Pope Leo XIV Prays with the Sick at Lourdes Grotto in Vatican Gardens on World Day of the Sick
On the World Day of the Sick, celebrated each year on 11 February, Pope Leo XIV met with a group of sick and elderly people at the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens, marking the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes with a moment of prayer and reflection focused on suffering, faith, and hope.
After his Wednesday General Audience, the Holy Father made his way to the grotto, where those facing illness had gathered in anticipation of his visit. The setting, inspired by the Marian shrine in Lourdes, France, holds particular spiritual significance on this day, which the Church dedicates to prayer and solidarity with the sick and those who care for them.
Addressing those present, Pope Leo XIV described the occasion as a beautiful reminder of Mary’s closeness to humanity. He reflected on the Blessed Mother as a source of comfort who accompanies believers in times of trial and uncertainty. The Pope noted that Mary teaches the faithful about the deeper meaning of suffering and the power of love, as well as the importance of entrusting one’s life to God even amid hardship.
The World Day of the Sick was established to encourage prayer for those who suffer physically or spiritually and to recognise the essential role of healthcare workers. In his brief remarks, the Pope expressed gratitude to those who had made the effort to attend despite their health challenges. He thanked them for coming before the Virgin Mary in a spirit of trust and devotion.
Standing before the grotto, Pope Leo XIV offered prayers not only for those gathered in the Vatican Gardens but also for all who are sick around the world. He invoked God’s blessing upon doctors, nurses, and caregivers who dedicate their lives to assisting the ill, often under demanding and emotionally challenging circumstances.
The annual observance coincides with the liturgical memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes, recalling the Marian apparitions reported in 1858 in Lourdes, which has since become one of the most visited pilgrimage sites for those seeking healing and spiritual renewal. The Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens serves as a symbolic link to that tradition, offering a quiet space for reflection within the heart of the Holy See.
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV has frequently highlighted the dignity of the vulnerable and the need for a compassionate Church that remains close to those who suffer. His meeting with the sick on this day underscored that message, emphasising presence, prayer, and pastoral care rather than grand ceremony.
The encounter concluded with the Pope imparting his Apostolic Blessing, entrusting all who are sick to the protection of the Blessed Mother and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to accompany them with faith, solidarity, and love.
