The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network has published the intention for the month of February. Pope Leo invites us to pray that children suffering from incurable diseases and their families may receive the medical care and support they need, and never lose strength and hope.

Together with the Holy Father, we recognize that children who suffer from incurable illnesses, “their smiles, even in pain, are a witness to your Kingdom.”

Lord Jesus,

who welcomed the little ones in your arms and blessed them tenderly,
today we bring before you the children living with incurable illnesses.

Their fragile bodies are a sign of your presence,
and their smiles, even in the midst of pain, are a testimony of your Kingdom.

We ask you, Lord, that they may never lack proper medical care,

human and compassionate attention,
and the support of a community that accompanies them with love.

Sustain their families in hope, in the midst of weariness and uncertainty,
and make of them witnesses of a faith that grows stronger through trial.

Bless the hands of doctors, nurses, and caregivers,

so that their work may always be an expression of active compassion.
May your Spirit enlighten them in every difficult decision,

and grant them patience and tenderness to serve with dignity.

Lord, teach us to recognize your face in every suffering child.
May their vulnerability awaken our compassion,

and move us to care, accompany, and love

with concrete gestures of solidarity.

Make of us a Church that,

animated by the feelings of your Heart

and moved by prayer and service,
knows how to uphold fragility,

and in the midst of suffering, becomes a source of comfort,

a seed of hope, and a proclamation of new life.

Amen.