By Claude Kenfack
Hundreds, including Bishops of Cameroon and Christian faithful, gathered at the Mary Queen of the Apostles Basilica in Mvolye, Yaounde, this Monday, March 3, 2025, to pray for the recovery of Pope Francis.
The Holy Father, 88, has been sick since February 14 due to complications from bronchitis, which escalated into double pneumonia.
The solemn pontifical Mass was officiated by His Excellency, Archbishop Jose Avelino Bettencourt, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea.
In his homily, Archbishop Bettencourt expressed gratitude to the congregation, stating, “Your prayers and solidarity are a testament to the strength and unity of our faith community. Let us continue to lift the Holy Father in our prayers, trusting in God’s healing power.”
Archbishop Nkea Urges Continuous Prayers for Pope
His Grace Andrew Nkea, Archbishop of Bamenda and President of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC) who announced the prayers, also addressed the assembly.
He urged continuous intercession for Pope Francis’ recovery.
“In these challenging times, we are reminded of the power of collective prayer. I call upon all Christians to multiply their prayers, trusting that God hears and heals,” Archbishop Nkea exhorted.
The Basilica resonated with the voices of young children, whose innocent prayers the prelates especially encouraged.
This reflected the belief that God attentively listens to the petitions of the young.
The Bishops invoked the figure of Saint Peter the Apostle, drawing parallels to his intercession for his ailing mother-in-law, as the faithful now seek his intercession for Pope Francis, who Catholics believe is the current successor of St Peter.
Global Solidarity for Pope Francis
This prayer session in Cameroon aligns with global acts of solidarity, as Catholics worldwide hold vigils and offer prayers for the Pope’s swift recovery.
Hundreds recently gathered at St. Peter’s Square in Rome to pray the Rosary for Pope Francis’ health.
Latest reports say Pope Francis’s condition has shown signs of improvement.
The Vatican announced that he is stable, no longer requires mechanical ventilation, and continues to receive supplemental oxygen.
Pope Francis has been able to rest well, drink coffee, and read newspapers, indicating a positive trajectory in his recovery.
