Faith leaders have been called upon to pray for Pope Francis as he continues to receive treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
Despite the critical nature of his condition, recent updates from the Vatican indicate a slight improvement even as the global community has come together in an outpouring of support and prayer for the 88-year-old Pontiff.
Additionally, his mild kidney insufficiency is currently under control.
Following a heartfelt message from his hospital room where Pope Francis expressed gratitude for the global support, stating that he has “In recent days received many messages of affection, and has been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children, faithfuls world over have responded with vigils and masses worldwide.
In St. Peter’s Square, thousands gathered for a rosary vigil led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. Despite the rain, attendees prayed fervently for the Pope’s recovery, reflecting on his contributions to the Church and the world.
African Catholic prelates have also joined in the global appeal for prayers as Bishops and cardinals from various African nations have urged the faithful to intercede for Pope Francis, emphasizing his role as a shepherd to the universal Church.
Kenya’s Archbishop Philip Anyolo of Nairobi released a circular calling on all Catholics to offer special prayers during Mass. In Nigeria, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, emeritus of Abuja, echoed the sentiment, urging the faithful to hold prayer vigils in their dioceses.
Similar appeals have been made by bishops in Uganda, Ghana, and South Africa, demonstrating the deep spiritual solidarity between Africa and the Vatican.