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James Martin, S.J.March 29, 2023
an image of pope francis standing with hands closed in prayer against a red backgroundPope Francis prays during his weekly general audience in the Vatican on May 12, 2021. (CNS Photo/Paul Haring)

Editor’s note: Pope Francis was taken to the hospital on Wednesday, March 29. The Vatican said in a statement that the Holy Father has “a respiratory infection that requires some days of appropriate medical therapy in hospital.”

Loving God,

We ask you to look with favor on your servant Francis,

who has served you as a Jesuit, a priest, an archbishop, a cardinal and now as a pope.

Most of all, he has served you as a faithful Christian, sharing the love, mercy and compassion

that your Son showed to all he encountered, especially those who were poor or struggling.

As Francis faces this new illness,

help the doctors and nurses who care for him,

help him to bear any pain with grace

and help him to heal quickly.

We ask this in your Holy Name.

Amen.

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