2025.02.02 The Presentation of the Lord

Dear Parishioners,

On Tuesday, February 11, we celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and the World Day of the Sick. The Church has designated the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes as the World Day of the Sick because of the many healings that take place at Mary’s shrine in Lourdes: physical, emotional and spiritual healing. A few years ago, I was fortunate to visit the shrine of the Our Lady of Lourdes in France and experience first-hand the faith of so many pilgrims who come to Mary’s shrine seeking comfort and peace. It was one of the most beautiful experiences for me to stand before our Lady at the grotto and pray.

The ministry of Jesus to the sick is central to the life of the Church. Pope Saint John Paul II in establishing the World Day of the Sick stated: “I consider most appropriate indeed, the bestowal upon the entire ecclesial community of an initiative which, as already practiced in some nations and regions, has brought forth precious pastoral fruit.” 

A lot of parishes will have the Anointing of the Sick on this special day and pray for healing, through the intercession of our Blessed Mother. Here at St. Rose, we will have three Masses on February 11, (7.30 a.m., 12.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m.) At each Mass we will have the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, a beautiful sacrament asking for God’s strength and peace. If you suffer from any kind of ailment, the sacrament can give you peace of mind and comfort. But, anyone, not just those who are ill, can receive the anointing. So, please join us on Tuesday, February 11.

Fr. Vijai, C.S.C. ~ Pastor