The Fifth Corporal Work of Mercy

Visit the
Sick

The Catholic call to care for the ill, bringing comfort and Christ's healing presence

Black mature male chaplain wearing clerical collar, holding bible standing beside hospital bed, comforting senior Caucasian woman with oxygen tube during hospital visit, end of life pastoral care

Complete History: Visit the Sick

Definition

To visit the sick is to bring comfort, care, and Christ's presence to those suffering illness. Christ: "I was sick and you visited me" (Matthew 25:36). CCC: "Those oppressed by sickness are the object of a special love on the part of the Church" (CCC 1503). Includes physical presence, prayer, sacraments, practical assistance.

Biblical & Historical

Scripture

Christ healed sick constantly (Matt 4:23). James 5:14-15: "Is any sick? Call elders... pray, anointing with oil." Apostles visited and healed (Acts 5:15-16).

Church History

Early: Deacons visited sick. Medieval: Orders founded hospitals. St. Camillus (16th c.): Camillians for hospital ministry. Modern: Catholic hospitals, Anointing of Sick.

Practice Today

Spiritual

  • • Bring Eucharist
  • • Pray together
  • • Arrange Anointing
  • • Read Scripture

Practical

  • • Visit in person
  • • Bring meals
  • • Help with errands
  • • Transportation

Ministry

  • • Parish sick ministry
  • • Hospital chaplaincy
  • • Hospice volunteers
  • • Nursing home visits
Middle aged Black male chaplain wearing clerical collar sitting beside senior Caucasian woman lying in hospital bed with oxygen tube, holding book and talking, medical monitor in background

Conclusion

Visiting the sick roots in Christ's healing ministry and 2,000 years of Church practice. From early deacons to modern chaplains, the Church brings Christ to the suffering. Includes spiritual care (prayer, sacraments), companionship, practical help. Catholics visit hospitals, nursing homes, homebound, bringing comfort and hope. When we visit the sick, we encounter Christ in their suffering.