Abdelrahman
Roman Catholics around the globe came together in prayer for Pope Francis, who remains hospitalized and in critical condition, as announced by the Vatican. This heartfelt supplication took place during Sunday Mass, following concerns that the Pope was “not out of danger” after his hospitalization on February 14.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted with an infection that progressed to pneumonia affecting both lungs. Reports indicate that on Saturday, he experienced a serious “asthmatic respiratory crisis,” necessitating high levels of oxygen support and a blood transfusion, according to Vatican officials.
Since becoming the spiritual figurehead for nearly 1.4 billion Roman Catholics in 2013, Pope Francis has inspired prayers for his healing far and wide. At Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul, Pat Santos, a tourist from the Philippines, referred to the Pope as “the symbol of Christianity.”
On Sunday morning, the Vatican provided an update stating that the Pope had a restful night, yet no additional details about his health were shared. Santos, 31, voiced his concerns, noting that pneumonia poses serious risks given the Pope’s age and remarked, “May he recover well so he can enjoy his retirement.”
Previously, the Pope has experienced lung issues, and recent discussions among cardinals hinted at the possibility of him stepping down, similar to the resignation of his predecessor, Benedict XVI, in 2013.
Doctors indicated on Friday that Pope Francis would stay at the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome for at least another week. While his critical condition was reaffirmed, the announcement on Saturday pointed to a more complex health situation.
Prayers were fervently offered during Mass services in various locations, including Nairobi, Kenya; Sydney and Melbourne in Australia; and throughout the Philippines, where nearly 80 percent of the population are Roman Catholics. Father Vicente Gabriel Bautista, during Sunday Mass at the Manila Cathedral, expressed the community’s ongoing prayers for Pope Francis, wishing the Lord’s love, mercy, and healing upon him. A special vigil prayer had also taken place for the Pope on Friday.
Aurora Agustin, a candle vendor outside Quiapo Church in Manila, shared that she had been praying since Friday. “I pray for his speedy recovery because he is our leader and is very well loved,” she said, highlighting the deep connection many feel toward the Pope. Neneth Felix, a church volunteer from Paranaque, echoed similar sentiments, praying for the Pope’s longevity. “When I pray for my family at night, I include Pope Francis,” she said, expressing admiration for his humility and the values he embodies.
This coordinated wave of prayer exemplifies the heartfelt support for Pope Francis during this challenging time, uniting Catholics around the world in hope for his swift recovery.
