When cancer strikes, it can be a crushing blow not only physically, but spiritually. It is a difficult cross to bear, one that God mysteriously allows in our fallen world.
Yet, during his short life on earth Jesus healed many people who came to him in sincere faith. While we must always seek proper medical attention for whatever ails us or our loved ones, God also wants us to reach out to him. One way to do that is through the intercession of the saints.
In particular, one saint who is known for his powerful intercession and healing of those suffering from cancer is St. Peregrine. An Italian saint from the 14th century, Peregrine suffered from a cancerous infection in his leg, which was miraculously healed during his lifetime. After his death Peregrine became known as the Patron of Cancer Patients and countless miracles have been attributed with his intercession.
Below is a simple prayer to St. Peregrine, asking for his intercession for yourself or a loved one suffering from cancer.
O great St. Peregrine, you have been called “The Mighty,” “The Wonder-Worker,” because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you. For so many years you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fiber of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more. You were favored with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction. Ask of God and Our Lady, the cure of the sick whom we entrust to you. (Pause here and silently recall the names of those for whom you are praying) Aided in this way by your powerful intercession, we shall sing to God, now and for all eternity, a song of gratitude for His great goodness and mercy. Amen.
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