The Goaso Diocese had the honour of hosting the National Launch of the 33rd World Day for the Sick on Friday, 4th April 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Hwediem. The event brought together clergy, religious, healthcare professionals, traditional leaders, government officials, and lay faithful to reflect on the Church’s healing ministry and commitment to the sick and suffering.The celebration began with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration led by Most Rev. Peter Paul Y. Angkyier, Bishop of Damongo and Episcopal Chair for Health. He was joined by Most Rev. Peter Kwaku Atuahene, Bishop of Goaso, and a number of priests from across the country. The Mass included special prayers for the sick, caregivers, and health workers.
Also present were Chaplains for Catholic Health Institutions across the country, who were already in the diocese for a three-day national chaplains' conference held at the Diocesan Pastoral and Social Centre, Goaso.
Their presence highlighted the spiritual and pastoral role of Catholic healthcare.
The programme continued after the Mass, featuring addresses and goodwill messages from a host of dignitaries, including the Ahafo Regional Minister, Hon. Charity Gardiner, representatives from the National and Regional Health Directorates, Nananom (traditional authorities), and officials from the National Catholic Health Service.
Representatives from sister health institutions in the diocese were also in attendance, reinforcing the diocesan commitment to collaborative healthcare and service to the community.
A key moment in the programme was the reading of the Holy Father’s message for the 33rd World Day for the Sick, solemnly delivered by Bishop Peter Paul Y. Angkyier. The Pope’s message emphasized compassionate care, solidarity with the suffering, and the Church’s enduring mission of healing.
The theme for the 33rd World Day for the Sick in 2025 was “Hope does not disappoint (Rom 5:5), but strengthens us in times of trial,” inspired by the Jubilee Year of Hope. The theme focused on the healing power of hope, especially for the sick and those who care for them, in times of hardship and suffering.
During the programme, Most Rev. Peter Kwaku Atuahene, Bishop of Goaso, made a heartfelt appeal for support towards the Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Health Centre in Mim, which is in need of critical assistance to expand and enhance its services to the local community. He called on government agencies, health stakeholders, benefactors, and the faithful to come to the aid of the facility in its mission to serve the sick with dignity and love.
After the programme, the Bishops and chaplains made a pastoral visit to the sick patients at St. Elizabeth Hospital, where they offered prayers for healing, comfort, and strength. The visit was a powerful demonstration of the Church’s closeness to those who are suffering and its commitment to bring the healing presence of Christ to those in need.
St. Elizabeth Hospital, Hwediem, with its legacy of dedicated and holistic care, provided the ideal setting for this national event. The launch served as a powerful reminder of the Church’s mission to be a source of healing, hope, and dignity for all, especially the vulnerable.
Brief History of the World Day of the Sick
The World Day of the Sick was established in 1992 by Pope Saint John Paul II, shortly after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He envisioned it as a special day to express the Church’s solidarity with the sick and to honour those who care for them.
The first observance took place on 11th February 1993, aligned with the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, a symbol of healing in the Church. Since then, it has become a global occasion marked by prayer, reflection, and outreach, especially in Catholic health institutions.
Each year, the Pope issues a message themed around care, dignity, and compassion, encouraging the faithful to be close to those who suffer and to recognize Christ in the sick. This year’s message was aligned with the Jubilee Year of Hope, focused on healing through hope.
Goaso Diocese, together with its partners in health and pastoral care, expresses deep gratitude to all who supported the successful organization of this memorable and spirit-filled launch.
Source: DEPSOCOM Goaso