The Apostleship of Prayer announced this general intention, which was chosen by the Pope and shared with millions of faithful worldwide.
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.
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.
This year, Africa will be the host of the main celebrations of the 13th World Day of the Sick, to be held in Yaounde, Cameroon.
Every month, the Pope also prays for a missionary intention. In February it is: «That all missionaries, both men and women, may grow in their recognition that it is only through a fervent love of Christ that the Gospel can be transmitted in an effective and convincing way.»
