Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- Utah Catholics express concern over Pope Francis' health decline.
- Pope Francis is in critical condition due to severe respiratory issues.
- The community prays for his recovery, reflecting on his impactful papacy.
SALT LAKE CITY — Local parishioners filed into the Cathedral of the Madeleine Saturday evening for 5 o'clock Mass. But for some, it felt a little different.
"It's crazy and just heartbreaking," Sophia Nanni said.
As news of Pope Francis' critical condition spreads, Utah Catholics are reflecting on his 12-year papacy.
"Many adults, many young adults have come back to the Church. And I think it's thanks to him," Angelica Lopez said.
The Vatican announced Saturday that Francis is in "critical condition" after experiencing a "severe asthmatic respiratory crisis," which required high-flow oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion.
Francis has been in the hospital for over a week now. He was first admitted for bronchitis but eventually developed pneumonia in both lungs.
"He's an inspiration to a lot of people around the world, myself included," said Father John Evans, Vicar General of the Diocese of Salt Lake City. "We look up to him for the kind heart that he has; he's not afraid to speak the truth of the gospel and really try to elevate our minds and hearts."
The 88-year-old pontiff has been known for his progressive views and, as Fr. Evans said, his authenticity.
"He came in with such humility. He was a person who would ride the city bus, who would visit the homeless, who did this on a regular basis. Not for show, just quietly on his own," Evans said.
The Catholic community is now hoping and praying for the Pope's recovery — and inviting others to do the same.
"I really hope that he's able to get better," Nanni said.
"What we can do on our part is to try to be a support in the best way possible, and certainly prayer is a big part of that," Evans said. "Say some prayers for him, for his comfort, for his healing."
Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia, remains in a critical condition and his prognosis is still guarded because of the "complexity" of his clinical condition, the Vatican said on Sunday.
Contributing: Reuters
