This second day is dedicated to prayers for healing — whether it be the physical healing of bodily illnesses or the inner healing of our soul’s wounds. Padre Pio was blessed with mystical gifts, and miracles of healing have been attributed to his intercession; but he himself carried intense pain (such as stigmata and illnesses) for many years, which he offered to God for the salvation of other souls.
Inspired by his example of faith in pain, let us present our illnesses and weaknesses to the Lord. Jesus Christ is the divine physician of souls and bodies: during his public life, he cured the blind, lepers, paralytics, and even raised the dead, always moved by compassion.
When praying for healing, remember that God’s plans do not always coincide with our immediate desires. Sometimes He grants physical healing; at other times, He gives strength and peace to endure illness and brings a greater good out of suffering.
“Lord Jesus, divine Physician, I believe that nothing is impossible for You. On this day, I come before You to beg for the grace of healing. You, who have healed so many sick people with the touch of Your holy hands, also touch the wounds of my body and soul. If it is Your holy will, remove from me the illnesses, pains and all the physical ills that afflict me. Give me, Lord, health and strength to serve You with joy and to resume my journey without failing.
Lord, You know every cell of my body, for You are my Creator. Have compassion on me, as You had compassion on those who suffered and asked for Your help on the roads of Galilee. Just as the woman with the hemorrhage was healed when she touched the hem of Your cloak with faith, I also say: Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me! Heal me in body and soul.
But if by chance the healing I ask for is not the best for my salvation, then grant me courage and perseverance to carry this cross in union with you. Accompany me in times of pain, do not allow me to succumb to discouragement or rebellion. May I be able to repeat, following the example of Saint Padre Pio, “Thy will be done”, accepting with love the divine plans, trusting that you are acting for my greatest good, even when I do not understand.
Heal also, Lord, the wounds of my heart. Many times I carry resentments, traumas, anxieties and deep sadness that no one sees, but that You know well. Pass, O Jesus, with your wounded and healing hand, over every painful memory, every hidden resentment, every emotional wound. Pour into my soul the balm of your Holy Spirit, which soothes and restores what is wounded. Where there is hatred, put love; where there is depression, put joy; where there is restlessness, put your peace.
Lord, I praise and thank you because I know that you are already working in me. My faith is only in You, who can do everything. Strengthen my confidence so that I do not stop praying, even if the answer takes time. “Pray, have faith and do not worry,” Padre Pio taught us — so I pray, have faith and now I leave all my worries in your hands. Thank you, Jesus, for hearing my plea. I bless You now for my healing, whether it is visible to human eyes or only to the eyes of faith. Merciful Jesus, I trust in You! Amen.”