The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, bishop of Scranton, officiated over Friday’s Mass celebrating the 30th World Day of the Sick at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Scranton.

“Through the wonderful Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, every one of us who approaches it with faith and hope will be touched by the closeness of God’s love,” Bambera said during the homily, an excerpt of which was posted on the diocese’s Facebook page. 

“Some of us may experience a physical healing,” the post said. “All of us will encounter the merciful presence of the Lord Jesus, who promises to touch our spirits and give us peace.” You can read his entire homily here. 

Pope John Paul II, who has since earned sainthood, established World Day of the Sick 30 years ago as a way to encourage Catholic people and institutions to be attentive to the sick and their caregivers, the Vatican said. 

“The annual Mass is an opportunity to devote special attention to the sick and to those who provide them with assistance and care both in health care institutions and within families and communities,” the diocese of Scranton said on Facebook.

Pope Francis issued a statement ahead of this year’s World Day of the Sick, in which he noted that although progress has been made since the day was first established, “there is still a long way to go in ensuring that all the sick, also those living in places and situations of great poverty and marginalization, receive the health care they need, as well as the pastoral care that can help them experience their sickness in union with the crucified and risen Christ.”  

The theme for this year’s World Day of the Sick is “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36), the Vatican determined.

World Day of the Sick is observed annually on Feb. 11.