Pope Benedict took a message of hope with him when he visited the Order of Malta's San Giovanni Battista hospital in Rome last Sunday.Addressing knights, medics and patients, the Pope said that over the centuries the Church had declared it was close to those who were suffering.
"The Pope is spiritually near to you and assures you of his daily prayers for you; he invites you to find in Jesus comfort and support and never to lose faith," he said.
During his sermon, the Pope said the Sovereign Military Order of Malta had dedicated itself to caring for the poor, the sick and those marginalised by society. He said the hospital, which was set up in the 1970s, was a testimony to this fraternal love.
He urged those working with patients to see Christ in all those who were sick. "Let them perceive through your actions and words the signs of His merciful love."
Grand Master Fra Andrew Bertie said the Pope's visit represented a "most valued recognition" for the order's members, the religious, the doctors, nurses, health workers and volunteers who give their services to the sick. He said the hospital was well-recognised for its high level professional care and was an example of the great humanity and the deep Christian spirit towards those suffering.
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