Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI health deteriorates, people join in prayer

Prayers for the health of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI are pouring in from across the world.

Pope Francis announced on Wednesday that his 95-year-old predecessor has been suffering recently from ill health.

People around the globe are praying for Benedict XVI at the invitation of Pope Francis, as the Pope Emeritus’ health remains stable but under observation by his doctors.

“He is absolutely lucid and alert. Today, although his condition remains serious, the situation remains stable at the moment,” he said. “Pope Francis renews his invitation to pray for him and accompany him in these difficult hours.” - Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni “He is absolutely lucid and alert. Today, although his condition remains serious, the situation remains stable at the moment,” he said. “Pope Francis renews his invitation to pray for him and accompany him in these difficult hours.” - Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni

Christians, as well as non-Christians, have responded in droves to Pope Francis’ request for prayers for the German-born Pope Emeritus.

Catholics in Ukraine also joined in the spiritual chorus for the Pope Emeritus, after Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk urged the Synod and all the faithful of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church to pray.