Catholics around the world devoted their Sunday masses praying for Pope Francis who according to the latest Vatican report, was in a critical condition.
The Pontiff was admitted at Gemelli hospital in Rome on 14th February 2025 after he experienced breathing difficulties for several days. Pope Francis had earlier made public his health condition in a couple of His public appearances . Later, the Vatican released a statement saying that the Pope will no longer conduct Holy masses until he fully recovers.
Ten days later, the Holy Father still lies at the Gemelli hospital, where He is receiving treatment for double Pneumonia.
On Sunday 23, February, a message from the Vatican revealed that Pope Francis, from the hospital bed, had asked Catholics to pray for Him.
“In recent days I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” he wrote.
“Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world. I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me.”
Even as this happens, hundreds of Catholics still gather outside the hospital in solidarity with the Pope to pray for his health.
Vatican’s press, ‘Holy See’, also announced that starting Monday Evening, all Cardinals residing in Rome will lead Rosary prayers at the St Peter’s Square for the health of the Holy Father.
The 88-year-old has been the leader of the Catholic Church for 12 years now. However, his tenure as Pope has been marred with health problems and with some times spending several days in hospital.
