Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez has made a public appeal for prayers for Pope Francis, who is currently dealing with a serious illness. Archbishop Pérez urged the faithful across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to hold Pope Francis in their thoughts and prayers, asking God to provide him strength.

In his message, Archbishop Pérez shared a suggested petition for the Universal Prayer during Mass on Sunday and in the following days. The prayer reads: “For our Holy Father, Pope Francis, that he may be strengthened in every way by the Lord in his present suffering and be uplifted by the prayers for him by people all over the world. Let us pray to the Lord. R. Lord, hear our prayer.”

Archbishop Pérez expressed hope that God would alleviate Pope Francis's suffering and restore his health so that he can continue his role as leader of the Catholic Church.