'Unto the healing of the soul and body, and unto the relieving from every infirmity of both body and soul' the euchological tradition of the church and assumed human suffering

Abstract

Illness and suffering have marked the human existence ever since Adam. Due to the great impact that these afflictions have always had on human life, the Church has directed her attention towards them, has theologised about them, and has included them in her rituals in an attempt to help men understand and defeat them through a life of communion with the crucified and resurrected Jesus Christ. Through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, men can and do find healing for their physical and spiritual sufferings when they ascribe such important life experiences to their personal relationship with God, the only realm that provides answers and solutions to all human realities. The prayers for the sick that are read during the Mystery of Holy Unction are less concerned with the healing or health of the sick person, and more with entrusting the sufferer's whole being unto God's mercy and care, as He is the only Physician of our souls and bodies', He Who with His all-encompassing kindness and providence knows what a man needs to have in order to attain everlasting happiness.