Argentines in Rome Unite in Prayer for Pope Francis Amid Health Scare

Members of the Argentine community in Rome are lighting candles and offering prayers for Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized since February 14 due to pneumonia and infections. The Church of Santa Maria Addolorata has become a focal point for their hopes and concerns, as many gather to pray for the pontiff's recovery.

In a heartfelt scene, Mariarosa Cavañas lit a candle at the church, expressing her hopes for the pope's health. She and other attendees, including local workers and faithful from Argentina, have been touched by the gravity of Francis' condition, with a recent update from the Vatican reporting his status as stable after experiencing acute respiratory episodes. The outpouring of support signifies the special bond felt by this small expatriate community with the pope.

The ceremony, held on the first Sunday of each month, emphasized the unity and concern among Argentines in Rome, with prayers offered for Francis and a dedication to their patron saint, Our Lady of Lujàn. “All of Argentina is praying for the pope,” said Marcela Perez, an attendee at the Mass. Despite the distance, their connection to Francis remains close and supportive amid his ongoing health battle.

The sentiment among the gathering reflects a larger global wave of prayers and hopes as the world watches and waits for reassurance of the papal leader's health.