Merciful Jesus, during Your life on earth You showed great concern for the sick and the infirm. Have compassion now on all those who are sick or in pain. Grant them a healing of mind and body and restore their strength and spirit. Comfort them with the knowledge that we are praying for them, and give them peace with a sense of Your presence. May they know that in the special way they are united with You, their suffering Christ. May they contribute to the welfare of the whole People of God by associating themselves freely with Your pasion and death for the salvation of the world. Bless, too, those who take care of the sick. In their own time of need, bestow on them a hundred fold the blessings they have given to others. Amen.