Hundreds of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Monday night to pray the rosary for Pope Francis’ health and recovery. This comes after the Vatican announced a special prayer initiative for the Holy Father, with cardinals residing in Rome leading a nightly rosary at 9 p.m.
The first rosary, led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, saw a solemn assembly of clergy, religious, and laypeople lifting their voices in prayer. Many held candles, while others clutched rosary beads, visibly moved by the moment of solidarity for the ailing pope.
“The Holy Father has always asked us to pray for him, and now more than ever, we unite in faith, entrusting him to the loving care of Our Lady,” Cardinal Parolin said before the prayer began.
Pilgrims from different countries, some traveling long distances, expressed their deep devotion to the pope. “We came here to show our love for him. He has given his life to the Church, and we pray that God grants him strength,” said Maria Rodriguez, a pilgrim from Spain.
The prayer initiative will continue nightly in St. Peter’s Square as the faithful around the world are invited to join in praying for Pope Francis’ health.
Prayer for Pope Francis’ Health and Recovery
Heavenly Father,
You have called Pope Francis to shepherd Your Church with wisdom, compassion, and humility. In this time of illness, we lift him up to You, entrusting him to Your loving care.
Grant him strength in body, peace in mind, and healing in spirit. Guide the hands of those caring for him, and may he feel the love and prayers of the faithful around the world.
Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Lourdes, the patroness of the sick, we ask for Your divine mercy upon him. May Your will be done, and may he continue to serve as a witness of faith, hope, and love.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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