Cardinal David asks for prayer for Pope Francis
Candles with portraits of Pope Francis and Padre Pio are set at the bottom of a statue of Pope John Paul II outside the Gemelli Hospital where Pope Francis was hospitalized for tests and treatment for bronchitis in Rome, on February 19, 2025. Pope Francis, who has been diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs, passed a "peaceful night", the Vatican said on 19 February 2025, amid growing concerns over the 88-year-old's condition.
Tiziana FABI / AFP
Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David on Wednesday asked the public to offer prayers for Pope Francis amid his hospitalization.
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis has developed pneumonia in both his lungs and his condition remains "complex."
"Pope Francis is currently hospitalized and is undergoing treatment for pneumonia," David said.
"May I ask for your prayers for his healing and recovery during this challenging time," the Filipino cardinal added.
The 88-year-old Catholic church leader has been suffering from a respiratory infection for over a week and was admitted to a hospital in Rome last week.
Despite his condition, the Vatican said the pontiff remained in "good spirits" and spent the day "reading, resting and praying."
The Vatican has canceled all of his engagements as he battles his respiratory infection.
Before his admission last week, the Pope had bronchitis symptoms for several days and had delegated officials to read prepared speeches at events.
The Pope is especially prone to lung infections due to developing pleurisy as an adult and having part of one of his lungs removed at age 21.