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Prayer for the Sick
Loving God, your Son accepted our sufferings to teach us the virtue of patience in human illness. Hear our prayers for our sick brothers and sisters. May all who suffer pain, illness, disease, and the frailty of old age realize that they have been chosen to be saints and know that they are joined to Christ in his suffering for the salvation of the world. Amen.

Prayer for a Happy Death
Lord Jesus, we are to appear before you after this short life to render an account of our works. Grant us the grace to prepare for our last hour by always living according to your commandments. Protect us from a sudden and unprovided death by teaching us to watch, to pray, and to wait in joyful hope for your coming as our Savior. If we are unable, at our last moments, to hear or understand the prayers of the Church, we wish to hear and rejoice in them now.

In the prayers for the dying the priest says:

We commend you, our dear brothers and sisters, to almighty God and entrust you to your Creator. May you return to God who formed you from the dust of the earth. Amen.

May holy Mary, the angels, and all the saints come to meet you as you go forth from this life. Amen.

May Christ who was crucified for you bring you freedom and peace. May Christ who died for you admit you into his garden of paradise. May Christ, the true Shepherd, acknowledge you as one of his flock. Amen.

May the Lord forgive all your sins and set you among those he has chosen. May you see your Redeemer face to face and enjoy the vision of God for ever. Amen.

A special note about chain letters
Some people receive chain letters promising good luck if they send copies of the letter to other people. The letters also threaten misfortune if the receiver does not send the copies or breaks the chain.

Whoever writes or sends these letters is acting out of superstition or fear. Perpetuating this superstition, out of a desire for money or out of fear, signals a lack of faith in the wisdom and goodness of God, and could do great harm to the faith and peace of mind of others.

Superstitious people think they can control God by the number of prayers said or letters sent. Faithful people know they are loved by God, and they trust in that love – not in "luck." Please destroy these letters. Do not be afraid. God does not play games with us.

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