June 25, 1997

Greetings,

As Jesus walked on this earth, His life became a flesh and blood example of God's love for all humanity. He reached out to those He met along the way and touched them with His words and with His hands. He healed those with spiritual and physical needs. When Jesus sent out the apostles and disciples to go and minister among the people, He instructed them to heal the sick.

That same challenge applies to us today in our parishes. Where once we relied on our fine Catholic hospitals, we can no longer expect them alone to fulfill our healing mission. Swift hospital discharges and insurance concerns complicate the lives of many of our parishioners. Our parishes have an obligation to make sure we still reach out with a healing hand to those in need.

This booklet will serve as a guide to challenge you, and as a resource to assist you, in designing health ministry in your parish. God's blessings on your efforts. Peace.

Sincerely yours in the Lord,

Most Reverend Rembert G. Weakland, 0SB
Archbishop of Milwaukee