The Pontiff visited Leyte in 2015
TACLOBAN CITY – The Archbishop of Palo has called on the faithful to pray for the immediate recovery of Pope Francis, the only Pontiff to have ever visited Eastern Visayas.
Archbishop John Du issued an open letter to the faithful through the archdiocese’s social media account on Monday, Feb. 24, urging continued prayers for the Holy Father, who remains in critical condition at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
“As the doctors addressed the media and declared that ‘he is not out of danger,’ we continue to pray for the well-being of Pope Francis,” Archbishop Du said.
“Our continued prayers and Masses offered for his health and well-being are our powerful way of showing our love for the Holy Father,” he added.
The archbishop reminded the faithful of Pope Francis’ historic visit to Leyte on Jan. 17, 2015, when he personally consoled survivors of Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ (Haiyan), which devastated the region on Nov. 8, 2013.
“In the Archdiocese of Palo, we remember how Pope Francis brought a profound sense of hope and solidarity to our communities affected by Super Typhoon Haiyan,” Du said.
“His presence as the Vicar of Christ served as a powerful symbol of God’s mercy and compassion, reminding us that we are not alone in our collective efforts of healing and rebuilding,” he added.
During his visit, the Pope presided over a Mass in Tacloban attended by more than 200,000 people despite a typhoon that was hitting the province at the time. He also visited the Palo Cathedral and met with families affected by Yolanda.
Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Palo has denied rumors circulating on social media that the Pope has passed away.
Fr. Chris Arthur Militante, the archdiocese’s information officer, dismissed the claims as “fake news” and urged the public to refer only to official sources such as the Vatican News for updates on the Pope’s condition.
“Let us pray, but also never forget that we are but temporary in this world, and our true home and happiness await with God,” Militante said.
“We will all die, and the Pope is not exempted,” he added.
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis, 88, is being treated for double pneumonia and early kidney failure, requiring high-flow oxygen therapy.
Despite his serious health issues, he has remained alert and communicative, attending Mass and expressing gratitude for the global outpouring of prayers and support.
JOEY A. GABIETA
