Pray for Pope Francis

As of February 14, Pope Francis has been hospitalized with double or bilateral pneumonia. Having experienced respiratory difficulties for many years, the Holy Father currently suffers from what doctors describe as a “polymicrobial” infection, meaning one caused by a virus-bacteria combination. Catholic News Service, via the USCCB, provides more details.

Homiletic & Pastoral Review invites all to join in praying for Pope Francis. The preexisting general prayer by the USCCB is below. Parishes and other groups may also wish to include him in their regular intercessions for the sick.

O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful,
look favorably on your servant Francis,
whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd;

Grant, we pray, that by word and example
he may be of service to those over whom he presides
so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care,
he may come to everlasting life.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.