The Archdiocese of Detroit has scheduled a special Mass this Sunday as area Catholics recognize World Day of the Sick.

“We invite you to join us for the World Day of the Sick Mass and Anointing Mass with Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament, on February 13, 2022 at 11 a.m.,” the Archdiocese posted online. 

The actual day of celebration was Friday, but the Archdiocese is live-streaming the Sunday Mass in an effort to reach more people than a Friday Mass might have.

“This special Mass will be celebrated for the sick, their caregivers, health care professionals, and loved ones and will include an anointing of the sick and a special blessing for caregivers and health care professionals,” the archdiocese said.

St. John Paul II 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 says.  

In advance of this year’s celebration, Pope Francis issued a statement. He noted that progress has been made since the day was 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,” he said. 

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 said.