Archbishop Cupich visits hospital, says children shouldn't suffer alone — especially at the holidays

Archbishop Blase Cupich made a Christmas Eve stop at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, and compared the young patients to a certain “vulnerable” baby born in a manger in Bethlehem.

“They really are in solidarity with the Christ child who was born in the world very poor, also in a vulnerable situation,” Cupich said.

The archbishop said he hoped to send a message that the children’s suffering during the holiday period is “not in isolation.”

Cupich said his Christmas plans include a visit to the Cook County Jail — and a little bit of quiet time.

“I’m going to take some time to write some Christmas cards,” he said. “And then I’m going to get some sleep. It’s been a very hectic pace.”

Cupich also was scheduled to say midnight Mass on Christmas Eve at Holy Name Cathedral, as well as Mass for the inmates on Christmas morning at the Cook County Correctional Facility.

Archbishop Blase Cupich meets with reporters before visiting patients at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago | Al Podgorski / Sun-Times Media