Indonesian Bishop reflects on faith and healing during World Day of the Sick

Bishop Robertus Rubiyatmoko of Semarang shared his personal experience of feeling God’s love during his illness at the 33rd World Day of the Sick (HOSS) Mass held at the Specialist Clinic of Santa Elisabeth Hospital (RSE) in Semarang on Sunday.

Feb 19, 2025

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Patients, including elderly individuals, religious sisters, and those receiving IV treatments, filled the waiting area of the Santa Elisabeth Hospital (RSE) Specialist Clinic during the World Day of the Sick Mass. Photo credit: Elwin/Archdiocese of Semarang

JAKARTA: “When I was sick, I was able to experience what it truly means to be loved and cared for. I found it easier to experience God’s love when I was ill,” the bishop shared, as conveyed by Fr. Ignatius Suharyono during the homily.

The World Day of the Sick is observed annually on Feb. 11, and this year’s Mass gathered patients, religious sisters, and members of the faithful seeking physical and spiritual healing.

During his homily, Fr. Suharyono said that Bishop Rubiyatmoko found comfort in the presence of healthcare workers and religious sisters during his time in the hospital.

“In the nurses and in the sisters, the Bishop found God’s messengers—little angels who loved him. And through them, the Bishop’s life was strengthened,” he said.

The bishop had been hospitalized for ten days at RSE during the Christmas season of 2024.

The Mass was officiated by Fr. Suharyono, as the main celebrant, with Fr. Benediktus Triwidayatno, MSF, the RSE Pastoral Care priest, and Fr. Benediktus Benny BS, Pr, the parish priest of Karangpanas, as concelebrators.

Following the homily, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick was administered.

Fr. Suharyono emphasized that Jesus desires healing for His followers, saying, “Jesus does not want His disciples to be sick. Many sick people were, in fact, healed by Jesus. However, the Lord wants us to believe first, and only then will healing take place.”--licas.news