Bishop reiterates call to prayer as Pope’s condition described as ‘critical’

In response to the breaking news Feb. 22 about the worsening status of Pope Francis as he is being treated in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., stated:

“The clergy and laity of the Diocese have been praying for the Pope throughout his hospitalization. We will continue to do so as his battle has become more difficult over the last 12 hours. May he be comforted by the prayers and well-wishes offered for him from around the world and may God see him through this critical time.”

Pope Francis was first hospitalized Feb. 14 with bronchitis and breathing difficulties.  On Feb. 18 his diagnosis was identified as bilateral pneumonia with a complex existence of polymicrobial infection.  On Feb. 20, the Pope’s doctors noted some improvement before the respiratory crisis that he suffered Feb. 22. 

The 88-year-old Pope is experiencing worsening pain as of Feb. 22, according to his doctors.

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