The Power of Prayer for Healing

  February is the month of healing and suffering. Hearing the words suffering and healing, we often think of people who are sick and needed to be healed through prayers and medical assistance. But let us also remember that all people experience suffering though it is not through grave sickness. Emotional and psychological problems can be considered as suffering.

Pope John Paul II's constant attention to the poor is one of the characteristics of his pontificate. In his 1984 apostolic letter "Salvifici Doloris" he addressed the Christian meaning of human suffering.

February 11 is the Feast day of OUR LADY of LOURDES, the late Pope John Paul II who is very much devoted to Blessed Mother believes in the intercession of Mary. In line with this in 1992, the Holy Father instituted the World Day of the Sick, to be observed every year on Feb. 11, liturgical memorial of the Virgin of Lourdes. In 1993 he established the Pontifical Council for Health Care Workers.

Novena Prayer for Healing START: 2/2/13

 (pray for 9 consecutive days; different intention every day)

Prayer for Healing:
God, like a watchful Shepherd, You care for us. You make the earth yield healing herbs and medicines and give us the knowledge to learn their power. Your creative love continues through the healing hands of doctors, pharmacists, and nurses, and the healing counsel of priests, ministers, and friends.
Bless me, and all who suffer. Our afflictions become a cross that burdens us with fear and uncertainty. Cast out our fear and revive our faith. Give us strength that we may be filled with hope. Let the Holy Spirit come to our aid that we might live each day in the joy for which You fashioned us.
I pray for healing in body, soul, and spirit that I may be Your servant in this world and enjoy the fullness of Your Presence in the life to come. I make this prayer humbly, knowing I cannot restrict or direct Your saving grace. I give joyful thanks for Your compassion wherever I may find it.
I ask all this in the Name of the Lord Jesus Who intercedes before You on my behalf. Amen.

Novena Intentions:
Day 1 : That all who are sick may experience the healing touch of the Lord Jesus.
Day 2 : That all who are ill among my family and friends may be restored to health in mind, body, and spirit.
Day 3 : That all who suffer from mental disease may receive compassionate treatment.
Day 4 : That all the homebound and bedridden may have Christ as their consolation.
Day 5 : That all who suffer from diseases that devastate the body may be granted strength and hope.
Day 6 : That all with disabling handicaps may be blessed with forbearance.
Day 7 : That all doctors, nurses, and other caregivers may be well in body and spirit.
Day 8 : That our lawmakers will pass laws to ensure that proper, dignified medical care is available for all who are in need, especially the poor and the elderly.
Day 9 : That God might look with favor on my special intentions.