Italian Bishops Call for Prayers as Pope Francis Remains Hospitalized

Written by Asger Risom

Feb.20 - 2025 7:30 AM CET

World
Photo: Alessia Pierdomenico / Shutterstock.com
Photo: Alessia Pierdomenico / Shutterstock.com
The 88-year-old pontiff has been receiving treatment for pneumonia since Friday.

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Pope Francis has been hospitalized in Rome for several days, prompting an outpouring of prayers from Catholic communities worldwide.

The 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, affecting both lungs.

His condition remains a concern, though reports suggest he is stable and under close medical supervision.

Church Leaders Urge Prayer for the Pope

As reported by HotNews.ro, the Italian Episcopal Conference has called upon all parishes and faithful to pray for the Pope’s recovery.

“We place our trust in God for the work of the doctors and medical staff, and we embrace the Holy Father with affection,” the bishops stated in a public appeal.

Beyond Italy, Catholic communities in Pope Francis' home country, Argentina, have also joined in prayer.

The Patriarch of Venice, Francesco Moraglia, issued a separate message urging his diocese to pray “at every opportunity” for the Holy Father, calling his health condition “a delicate situation.”

Pope Francis Remains in Stable Condition

The Pope was admitted to a hospital in Rome last Friday, with initial reports mentioning a respiratory infection. Further medical examinations confirmed bilateral pneumonia.

Despite his condition, he has remained in communication with Vatican officials and has expressed gratitude for the prayers and well-wishes he has received.

This latest hospitalization highlights ongoing concerns about Pope Francis' health.

In recent years, he has faced several medical challenges, including previous hospitalizations for respiratory issues and intestinal surgery. While the Vatican has not provided an official timeline for his discharge, doctors continue to monitor his condition closely.

As the Catholic world continues to pray for his recovery, many remain hopeful that the Pope will soon regain his strength and return to his leadership duties.