Written by Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care

I recently attended a gathering of Secular Franciscans. It was a time of learning, retreat, and prayer. We held a memorial service for those who have passed away since last year’s gathering. The leader of the prayer service brought candles to light for each person, in addition to a collection of rocks and sea glass she has found over time that are in the shape of hearts. As we prayed and lit the candles, our hearts were healed from the losses.

We also held a healing service that included prayers for all types of wounds of body, mind, and spirit. There were stories of St. Francis, St. Elizabeth of Hungary, and Lady Jacoba, a woman who stayed by the side of Francis at his death. We prayed for those on the margins, the ill, and the suffering. We prayed that we would realize when we have caused others pain and to take steps to heal any pain we bring to others. We prayed for those suffering from debilitating or terminal illness and for their caregivers. We prayed for those who are near the hour of death and in their final struggle. We asked that God’s love would touch others through us, that we would help all people to live in peace.

St. Ambrose, who lived between 340 and 397, wrote this about healing: “If we consider the size of our faith and are aware of the greatness of the Son of God, we realize that, in relation to Him, we can only touch his clothes; we cannot reach beyond. Therefore, if we too want to be healed by him, let us touch Christ’s clothes through our faith. He is aware of all those who touch his clothes, who touch him while he has his back turned.”

Jesus, you came into our world to be among the sick. By your presence you gave them hope, by your touch they were made whole. Come to us now and ease our pain. Heal our troubled minds, our aching bodies, and our sullen spirits. Good Physician, heal us and those we love.

Blessed Angela: “Should they ask for our help in either visiting the sick or exerting a moral influence, we should not excuse ourselves.”