Peruvian cardinal encourages doctors to see Christ in the sick

Lima, Peru, Mar 9, 2012 / 12:04 pm

Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani of Lima encouraged local doctors and health workers to always see Christ in the sick, who are a light that the world wishes to “extinguish.”

“When you see the sick, see Christ,” the cardinal said during his homily at a Mass celebrating the 60th anniversary of the San Juan de Dios Home and Clinic.

The San Juan de Dios clinic offers rehabilitation services to handicapped children and young people, especially in the fields of orthopedics.

Cardinal Cipriani expressed “infinite gratitude” for the clinic's work throughout the decades and encouraged doctors and volunteers to continue to care for their patients with devotion.

“As Cardinal and Pastor of this archdiocese, during this Mass I wish to join all the sick of the country and their families in praying to the Lord: give us joy and peace, cure us and encourage us.”

During his remarks, Cardinal Cipriani also noted the commemoration of International Women’s Day on March 8 and sent greetings to all the women of Peru, especially First Lady Nadine Heredia.

“Today as the world celebrated International Women’s Day, I send you my most affectionate blessings.  I recall my mother and all the mothers of Peru and all women, especially those who are sick and troubled, that the Lord may fill them with comfort,” the cardinal said.