NBVM Novena Day 5: Mary, Health of the Sick

On the 5th day of the Novena, the focus was on healing with the theme- Mary, Health of the Sick.
Fr. Christopher Loh, explained that in times of sickness, people often become desperate for healing and reach out earnestly to Jesus. The Gospel tells us: “Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all” (Luke 6:12-19).

While, Jesus desires to heal us, He also calls us to have faith. Fr. Christopher recalled the story of the ten lepers, where only one returned in gratitude, and Jesus told him, “Your faith has saved you.” Faith, therefore, is essential—not only to receive healing but also to see and accept human suffering through the eyes of God.

Mary is a model of such faith. From the very beginning, she placed her trust in God and accepted her calling without hesitation. Even though she could not fully understand what lay ahead, she surrendered herself entirely to God’s plan. At every twist and turn of her life—from the Annunciation, to the flight into Egypt, to witnessing her Son’s suffering—Mary remained steadfast. She teaches us that true faith is not about having all the answers, but about trusting God wholeheartedly, even in uncertainty.

Mary persevered in faith even in the midst of her deepest suffering, especially as she stood at the foot of the Cross at Calvary. Though her heart was pierced with sorrow, she did not give up or complain. Instead, she endured everything with unwavering trust in God. Many of us find it hard to face suffering, especially when we see our loved ones in pain. Our natural instinct is often to run away, to avoid what is too heavy for our hearts to bear. In those moments, trusting in God and persevering in faith can feel almost impossible. Yet, Mary shows us another way—she remained present in the midst of suffering, standing by the Cross with unshakable faith. Her perseverance teaches us that faith is not about escaping pain, but believing that even in sorrow God is at work, bringing healing, strength, and hope.

Mary also prayed faithfully for the Church. She interceded for the disciples and was with them at the upper room during Pentecost. Today, she continues to intercede for us. As seen in holy places like Lourdes, countless pilgrims seek her prayers and experience God’s healing grace through her intercession. SR

For more photos, please click on the following link:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1901Ht9S_wT7HWny5mHel-V4Z8_Wtuuop