CHARLOTTE — In light of Pope Francis’ continued ill health, Bishop Michael Martin is calling on Catholics to pray and engage in acts of kindness or sacrifice to be in spiritual communion with the Holy Father. He offered these thoughts to priests of the diocese’s 92 churches to share with the people at Masses this weekend:
"I and the Catholic faithful of the Diocese of Charlotte continue to monitor reports of the health of Pope Francis with deep concern for his wellbeing and with trust in God’s Providence. Pope Francis has been an example of faithful discipleship throughout his life and continues to offer us example even in the suffering he is experiencing in sickness. To all those who bear the cross of illness, know that our Holy Father is united to you during this critical time. I exhort all the faithful of our Diocese to pray and engage in some act of kindness or sacrifice to be in spiritual communion and support with Pope Francis. We offer prayers for him during this challenging time and entrust him to the care of his excellent medical team as well as to God’s blessing through the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Ignatius, and Our Lady Mother of the Church."
Read more about Pope Francis' health.
— Catholic News Herald