With the news this morning of Pope Francis being in the hospital, we invite all of our readers to pray for the Holy Father. 

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday to undergo testing and treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican said.

The 88-year-old Pope was hospitalized in the late morning on Feb. 14, following meetings with a number of people, including Prime Minister Robert Fico of Slovakia.

Pope Francis has been sick with bronchitis for more than a week. On Feb. 6, the Vatican announced the Pope would hold most of his meetings that day and the following days in rooms at his Vatican residence, in order to rest more. 

The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word — founded by EWTN’s foundress, Mother Angelica — wrote this prayer so we may all unite as one voice to lift up the Vicar of Christ in prayer today. 

We thank you for the loving service of Pope Francis and the hope he has inspired in so many in your great mercy.

Have mercy on him in his illness now, we pray, and guide the medical staff in his care.

Grant him peace and healing. Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word (MFVA) were founded in 1987 by Mother Angelica (foundress of EWTN) and have a primary apostolate to communite the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith through word and example. The friars provide generously for the spiritual and sacramental needs of the Eternal Word Television Network, the Poor Clare nuns and the Christian faithful.