Pope Shenouda III explains that caring for the sick is an essential pastoral duty for the priest, because visiting and serving the sick is service to Christ Himself who said: “I was sick and you visited Me.” He clarifies that illness is not only a physical condition, but a real spiritual opportunity for repentance and comfort, and a major responsibility for the priest through visitation, prayer, and emotional and financial support.

1. The spiritual foundation of caring for the sick

• Christ’s teaching in the judgment: visiting the sick is a true sign of love for God.

• The example of poor Lazarus whose wounds were ignored by the rich man, and the Good Samaritan who did not pass by the needy.

• Christ Himself healed every illness among the people, giving the model of the good shepherd.

2. The priest’s duties toward the sick

1. Visitation in homes and hospitals, because it gives the sick person spiritual comfort and a chance to receive God’s word.

2. Prayer and anointing with oil with reverence and spirituality, reading Scripture with seriousness.

3. Offering spiritual gifts such as an icon, cross, or Bible to give comfort.

4. Asking about the patient’s condition from family and doctors to know the real needs.

3. The human and material aspect

• The priest does not stop at one visit but cares for what the patient actually needs.

• Some diseases require very high expenses, making it necessary to collect support for the sick person or his family.

• Care also includes guiding families in health prevention, and giving advice on vaccinations and general care.

• Attention to children, nursing mothers, and the poor who suffer from malnutrition or unsuitable housing.

4. Organizing patient care in the church

• Training servants who specialize in visiting the sick in homes and hospitals.

• Preparing supporting services like small clinics or providing surplus medicines from doctors and pharmacies.

• Avoiding overburdening one doctor or one pharmacist with too many cases.

5. The spiritual dimension of the service

• The priest serves the sick with love, tears, and prayer, not as a formal duty.

• Every service offered to a sick person is offered to Christ Himself.

• Caring for the sick is a heavenly treasure and a practical commandment of love.

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