Pope Francis’s critical health condition prompts prayers from Chicago Catholics

CHICAGO – During Saturday evening Mass at Holy Name Cathedral, the health of Pope Francis was top of mind.

The Pope, who turned 88 years old in December, has been in the hospital over a week with pneumonia. On Saturday, the Vatican said he was in critical condition after suffering an “asthmatic respiratory crisis” while being treated for pneumonia and a complex lung infection.

Many Chicagoans said they’re praying for the Pope, hoping he gets well soon, including parishioners heading to Mass Saturday evening at Holy Name Cathedral.

“We’re all praying for our Pope, our beloved Pope. He’s a fighter. My friend and I were texting this last night and of course he’s going to come through this with winning battle,” one parishioner said.

Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Chicago, issued the following statement on the Pope’s condition:

“We have received word that the Pope’s condition worsened this morning. Please continue your prayers for his recovery and for the health care professionals working to lead him through this setback. We ask our Merciful Lord to restore Pope Francis to good health and to keep him free from pain as he receives treatment.”

Pope Francis has been the head of the Catholic Church since 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI resigned.