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MANILA – Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula is asking the faithful to include Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in their prayers and Mass intentions.
This came following Pope Francis' appeal for prayers for his predecessor who is very ill.
“I request that we include Pope Benedict XVI in the intentions of our Masses, let's join together in prayer, Holy Hour, and rosary for Pope Benedict," he said in an interview over Church-run Radio Veritas on Friday.
The archbishop is hoping the former pope experience the protection of Jesus who came for the redemption of the world.
"May Pope Benedict XVI experience the presence of Jesus who is our Light and Savior during this holiday season. Let us entrust him to God and to the care of the Blessed Virgin," Advincula added.
Pope Francis has asked for prayers for the recovery of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who is currently suffering from a serious illness at the age of 95.
Pope Benedict XVI resigned due to health problems in 2013, but he remained supportive of Pope Francis' leadership in overseeing the 1.4 billion Catholics around the world.
The former pontiff was elected to the Catholic Church's top post in 2005, succeeding the late St. John Paul II. (PNA)
