“The prayer of the poor rises up to God,” says Pope Francis, alluding to Sirach. As Catholics mark the eighth World Day of the Sick on February 11th, we share one of countless moments that God heard prayers for healing and responded generously.
Madam Wanye was supporting her husband and eight children, including sponsored child Dassah, with her tiny shea butter business. One day, her eyes started to sting. Her vision faded, and she could no longer work, cook, or care for her children.
Madam Wanye needed cataract surgery. As a private procedure, it came at a hefty price she knew they couldn’t afford.
“As a Christian, I prayed to God to intervene,” says her husband, Gyikpali. And God did, in the form of a social worker from Chalice’s Konta sponsor site.
He arrived for a routine visit to Dassah, “and found my wife in her ordeal,” Gyikpali says. “He promised to help her and asked us to pray for God’s direction and protection.”
The family kept their promise, and the Chalice worker kept his. Soon after, with Chalice’s support, Madam Wanye had her surgery. A quick eye test confirmed her vision was restored.
“The day I saw my wife walking alone from the station to the house,” Gyikpali says “I ran like a kid toward her with joy.”
“What came to my mind was that God is really a prayer-answering God. It is God who is our healer and provider in times like this.”
Chalice’s critical needs program helps families facing grave medical emergencies or other extraordinary family crises. You can see who may need your help today at chalice.ca/critical-needs