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Bishop anoints with oil and prays for sick in Norwich

The 25th World Day of the Sick and the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes was marked at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Norwich on Saturday February 11, with the Anointing of the Sick by Bishop Alan Hopes.

Parishioners from across the Diocese of East Anglia took the opportunity to be anointed with Holy Oil and experience the laying-on of hands in prayer.

During his homily, Bishop Alan, said: “As we encounter Jesus Christ through the prayer of the church, the laying on of hands and anointing with Holy Oil, we experience afresh God’s love and mercy, which always bring healing and wholeness in our lives.

“We must unite our sufferings with those of Jesus on the cross. Just as his holy sufferings redeemed the whole world, so we will discover that our own suffering can become a source of grace in the lives of others as we offer it up in love in union with Him.”

Bishop Alan quoted Pope Francis’ words for the day, expressing his: “closeness to all of you, our suffering brothers and sisters and to your families… and my appreciation to all those in different roles of service and in the healthcare institutions, who work with such professionalism, responsibility and dedication for your care, treatment and well being…”
 

Anointing of the Sick St John's Cathedral, Norwich Feb 11, 2016