Pope Francis' health crisis sparks prayers from thousands outside Vatican

Thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square to pray for the ailing Pope Francis, expressing sorrow for his suffering, hope for his recovery, and gratitude for his efforts to guide the Catholic Church in new directions. This collective expression of faith underscores the Pope's significant impact on the Church and its followers worldwide.

The 88-year-old pontiff is suffering from pneumonia in both lungs and, although showing slight improvement after 11 days in the hospital, remains in serious condition. The Vatican said earlier on Tuesday (Tuesday evening AEDT) that he "rested well, overnight." The consistent monitoring and care aim to ensure his stability and gradual recovery.

On a cold and rainy Monday evening (Tuesday morning AEDT), Cardinal Parolin, the Vatican's second-in-command, led a 45-minute prayer service, with worshippers clutching rosaries and hoping for Francis's recovery. Earlier in the day, the Vatican released a more optimistic health bulletin than in recent days, conveying a sense of optimism. The improved report brought a renewed sense of hope to the faithful.

However, in the vast square, the atmosphere remained heavy, with the approximately 4,000 people gathered aware that they might be spending Francis's final days in Rome. The crowd sat on folding chairs, held umbrellas, or stood by the massive colonnades, fondly recalling the Pope's accomplishments. The somber mood reflected the uncertainty surrounding the Pope's health and future.

"It's sad to see him suffering," said Robert Petro, a Romanian seminarian, standing among the praying crowd, holding a small, scented candle in tribute. "But we also pray and give thanks for all he has done for the church." His words echoed the sentiments of many who recognize the Pope's dedication and contributions.

Roberto Allison, a priest from Guadalajara, Mexico, said members of his community gathered to express gratitude for "all we have learned from him." Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, who stopped to personally offer blessings to some at the end of the service, said the diversity of the crowd – many world languages could be heard – was a "great consolation" to the Catholic Church. The global representation highlighted the Pope's widespread influence and connection with diverse communities.

The Argentine Pope, who had part of a lung removed in his youth, has been hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli hospital since Feb. 14. Doctors have said his condition remains precarious, given his age, frailty and pre-existing lung condition. But in their update Monday, they said he had not had any further respiratory crises since Saturday, and the supplemental oxygen he was using was continuing, but at slightly reduced flow and concentration. The gradual reduction in oxygen support indicated a positive trend in his respiratory function.

A Catholic tourist couple from Chicago, holding umbrellas, arrived long before the service began, saying they had prayed for the Pope at the daily Mass in St. Peter's Basilica earlier and decided to return. Like many, they found it "hard to accept" that they might be spending Francis's final days in Rome. "No one knows the days and the hours, but it's still a historic moment," said Edward Budjeck. The couple's dedication underscored the profound impact of the Pope on the lives of Catholics worldwide.

Hazumi Villanueva of Peru felt the same way. She was particularly fond of the former pope, St. John Paul II, but said Francis, as the first Latin American pope, "brought us closer together." "We came to pray for the Pope, for his speedy recovery, for the great mission of peace that he is sharing," said Villanueva, praising his compassion for migrants. Her words highlighted the Pope's efforts to connect with and represent marginalized communities.

Francis's papacy has also emphasized the protection of the environment and a partial opening to LGBTQ+ rights. Outside the Vatican, Romans, pilgrims and even non-Catholics said they were offering special prayers for the hospitalized pontiff. "We are all sorry," said Raniero Mancinelli, who custom-makes liturgical vestments for Francis and the previous two popes in his shop just outside the Vatican walls. The widespread concern for the Pope transcended religious boundaries.

Elisabetta Zumbo, carrying a 1.5-meter-long cross, walked along the police cordon on the street leading to St. Peter's Square, preparing to lead 34 pilgrims from the northern Italian city of Piacenza. In the pouring rain, she pledged that her group would offer intense prayers for the Pope. "There is a lot of emotion and a lot of sadness," Zumbo said. Her commitment exemplified the deep devotion and concern felt by many Catholics.

Nearby, a couple from London, visiting St. Peter's Basilica with their son, said that even though they weren't Catholic, they felt close to the Pope "because he is in his home" – this magnificent church. Their sentiment highlighted the Pope's role as a figure of unity and inspiration, even for those outside the Catholic faith.