Toowoomba Bishop calls on faithful to pray for Pope Francis

As Pope Francis battles pneumonia and a respiratory tract infection, Bishop Ken Howell has called on the faithful to unite in prayer.

Pope Francis remains in critical condition in Rome Gemelli Hospital.

Toowoomba Catholic Diocese Bishop Ken Howell has called on the faithful to unite in prayer as Pope Francis battles a complex illness.

The 88-year-old pontiff remains in the critical condition in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital where he is being treated for pneumonia and respiratory tract infection.

He was admitted on February 14 and it is understood the infection is in both of his lungs.

“I join with people across the world and share in their concern for Pope Francis,” Bishop Howell said

“I unite with the people of our diocese in praying for the Holy Father.”

While there are no specific vigils planned in the diocese, Bishop Howell said he asked all parishes to pray for Pope Francis at masses last Sunday.

“Prayers will continue at all Masses during the week,” he said.

Pope Francis has been receiving supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions after a prolonged asthma-style attack.

His blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control, according to the Vatican.

“The condition of the Holy Father remains critical; however, since last night he has not experienced further respiratory crises,” the Vatican said on Sunday.

“The complexity of the clinical picture, and the necessary wait for the pharmacological therapies to show some effect, require that the prognosis remains guarded.”

Pope Francis was elected to lead the church in 2013 and has previously said it was a job for life.

While there is no provision in cannon law for what happens if the Pope is incapacitated, it has been reported that Pope Francis has written a letter of resignation that would be invoked if he were medically incapable of making such a decision.

In a statement, the Vatican said Pope Francis has received two units of concentrated red blood cells with beneficial effects, and his haemoglobin levels have risen.

“The Holy Father remains alert and well-oriented,” it said.

Originally published as Toowoomba Bishop calls on faithful to pray for Pope Francis