On 26 February 2025, the Reformed Churches Ecumenical Office Rome and the Methodist Ecumenical Office Rome held a prayer service for the sick and suffering with special prayers for Pope Francis. Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on 14 February with double pneumonia. The service was held in St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church of Scotland, Rome, with the music and order of service in the style of the Taize Community.
Colleagues from Churches Together in Rome and the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity were in attendance.
“As pilgrim companions, we are called to pray for one another. Pope Francis has always asked us to pray for him. We pray especially for our brother Francis in this difficult time, that the Lord may bring him comfort, healing and peace,” said Rev. Matthew A. Laferty, director of the Methodist Ecumenical Office Rome.
Several prayers were offered during the prayer service that were composed by member churches of the World Methodist Council:
Lord Jesus Christ, we come to you sharing the suffering that you endured. Grant us patience during this time, that as we and Francis live with pain, disappointment, and frustration, we may realize that suffering is a part of life, a part of life that you know intimately. Touch Francis in his time of trial, hold him tenderly in your loving arms, and let him know your care. Renew us in our spirits, even when our bodies are not being renewed, that we might be ever prepared to dwell in your eternal home, through our faith in you, Lord Jesus, who died and are alive for evermore. Amen.
Adapted from the Book of Worship of The United Methodist Church
Loving and merciful God,
We bring before You His Holiness Pope Francis, asking for Your healing touch upon him. Grant him strength in body, peace in spirit, and wisdom for those caring for him. We pray for the Catholic Church, that they may be encouraged and upheld in faith as they journey through this time. May Your presence be felt among all who lift their voices in prayer, and may Your love continue to unite us in Christ.
E Otua fanongoa homau lotu (Lord hear our prayer)
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Uniting Church in Australia
We pray for Pope Francis, the Roman Catholic Church and all who hold him dear during this difficult time. May Pope Francis be surrounded by skilled and compassionate caregivers, may his faith continue to be a source of comfort and resilience; and may God’s presence continue to bring hope and encouragement to us all. In moments like these, we are reminded of our shared faith and the power of prayer to unite us in love and support. May God’s healing grace be with Pope Francis. Amen.
United Church of Canada
Methodist Ecumenical Office Rome 