Cardinal Stephen Brislin, the newly appointed Archbishop of Johannesburg, presided over a prayer service on Sunday that attracted a large gathering of South African Catholics, all united in their prayers for Pope Francis’s health and recovery as he battles double pneumonia.
The two-hour service was held at the Cathedral of Christ the King in central Johannesburg, drawing attendees from various demographics.
Brislin recognized the deep concern felt for the Pope since his hospitalization, highlighting the strong connection and affection that South Africa and the wider African continent share for him.
While Pope Francis has yet to visit South Africa, Brislin pointed out that the pontiff has warmly received South African delegations during their past visits to the Vatican.
The archbishop also remembered how Pope Francis was one of the first global leaders to offer condolences after a devastating fire in Johannesburg that resulted in over 70 fatalities in 2023.
He expressed hope for the Pope’s recovery and emphasized the importance of continuing to uphold Francis’ messages of compassion and support for those in need.
“The worldwide reaction to his illness illustrates his influence not only within the Catholic Church but also as a respected leader known for his integrity and commitment to truth,” he stated.
The Pope, who had surgery to remove part of a lung in his youth, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli University Hospital on February 14 due to severe respiratory complications. His condition rapidly deteriorated into double pneumonia, a serious infection affecting both lungs that can lead to inflammation and scarring, resulting in breathing difficulties.
