Since Pope Francis was hospitalized for pneumonia on February 14, messages of support and prayers for his health have come from around the world. Religious leaders, political figures, friends, and even children in the same hospital have expressed their concern and well-wishes. The Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I sent a handwritten letter wishing the Pope a swift recovery and a quick return to his duties. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, called on the faithful to unite in prayer for the Pope’s well-being.
In Lebanon, Cardinal Béchara Boutros Pierre Raï has been praying for the Pope’s healing. The Symposium of Bishops’ Conferences of Africa and Madagascar assured their solidarity and spiritual support. From his homeland of Argentina, Archbishop Jorge Ignacio GarcÃa Cuerva urged prayers for the Pope, asking God for strength and restoration of health.
Messages have also come from Bishops and Dioceses across Latin America, including countries like Uruguay, Mexico, and Brazil. The Latin American Episcopal Council, led by Cardinal Jaime Spengler, expressed affection for the Pope and included prayers for his strength and patience. Ahead of a feast day, Cardinal Spengler encouraged the faithful to include a special prayer during Mass for the Pope, acknowledging his role as a witness to Christ’s sufferings.
In Canada, Bishop William McGrattan has invited communities to pray for the Pope’s recovery, emphasizing his role as a leader of the Church. Similar prayers are being offered in Asia, with Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David in the Philippines asking for prayers from the faithful. Chinese Catholics are also participating in prayers and fasting for the Pope’s health.
World leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, have expressed their well-wishes as well. Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi from Italy shared optimism about the Pope’s condition, indicating positive updates toward recovery. As of Friday evening, the Pope’s medical team stated his condition is not life-threatening and that he is able to sit up and work, but warned he is not out of danger and will remain hospitalized for at least another week. The Holy See Press Office reported that the Pope had a restful night.