Vatican releases special prayer for ‘very ill’ Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

THE Vatican has released the special prayer for the health of Pope Emeritus Benedict XV.

It came after his successor, Pope Francis, confirmed Wednesday that the 95-year-old retired pontiff is “very ill.”

At the end of his weekly public address, Pope Francis departed from his prepared remarks. He asked for a special prayer for Pope Benedict.

“I would like to ask you all for a special prayer for Pope Emeritus Benedict, who is supporting the Church in silence. Remember him – he is very ill – asking the Lord to console him and to sustain him in this witness of love for the Church, until the end.”

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The Holy See Press Office director confirms there has been an aggravation in his health condition.

The Vatican News released the text of the prayer for Pope Emeritus Benedict on its Facebook Page.

Let us pray.

Almighty and Eternal God,

You are the everlasting health of those who believe in You.

Hear our prayers for your sick servant Benedict

for whom we implore the aid of Your tender mercy,

SPECIAL PRAYER FOR POPE EMERITUS BENEDICT XVI

Pope Benedict’s health ‘worsening’

Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, told journalists Wednesday that “in the last hours,” Pope Emeritus’ Benedict’s health has been “worsening due to advanced age.”

He said the Pope Emeritus is being constantly monitored by doctors and “at the moment remains under control.”

After the General Audience in the Paul VI Hall, Pope Francis went to the Mater Ecclesiae monastery in the Vatican where Benedict XVI resides.

Pope Emeritus Benedict has been in near isolation in the Vatican grounds after he shocked the world when he resigned and became the first Pope in six centuries to do so.

“We join him in prayer for the Pope Emeritus,” Mr. Bruni said.