Manila archdiocese to hold prayer vigil for Pope Francis Feb. 21

By Ferdinand Patinio, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Archdiocese of Manila on Thursday invited the faithful to join a prayer vigil for the immediate recovery of Pope Francis who has been hospitalized since Feb. 14.

In a social media post, the archdiocese said the prayer vigil will be held on Friday at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila.

“In response to the call of Archbishop Charles John Brown, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, to pray for the speedy recovery of the Holy Father as well as for all the doctors and nurses who are taking care of him, the Archdiocese of Manila invites the faithful to a Prayer Vigil for Pope Francis here at the Manila Cathedral on February 21, 2025, (Friday) at 5:00 pm,” it said.

The Holy Hour will be held a day after Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula called on all parishes and communities in the Archdiocese of Manila to organize prayer activities for the Holy Father.

“I would like to request our parishes and communities to organize community prayers for the intention of Pope Francis, like gathering our people for a Holy Hour for the Healing of the Sick, especially of the Pope,” he said.

Advincula also asked the faithful to offer personal and family prayers for the same intention.

Last week, the 88-year-old pontiff was hospitalized due to bronchitis.