Nigerian Catholics are holding prayers and vigils nationwide for Pope Francis, who remains hospitalized in critical care due to a respiratory infection. Despite some improvement, he has been in the hospital since February 14, prompting spiritual solidarity among Nigeria's 30 million Catholics.
The Holy See confirmed on Monday that Pope Francis has resumed limited duties, including sending messages of support to conflict zones such as Gaza. However, medical teams at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital cautioned that his recovery remains fragile, emphasizing that he is “not out of danger” and requires close monitoring.
The news has drawn global attention, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres calling the Pope “indispensable to peace efforts. " Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima echoed this sentiment, praising the pontiff’s advocacy for marginalized communities.
In Lagos, Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins led thousands in a candlelit vigil at Holy Cross Cathedral, urging worshippers to “pray without ceasing for our Holy Father’s healing.” Similar gatherings unfolded nationwide, from Abuja’s St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral to rural parishes in the Niger Delta.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) organized round-the-clock recitations of the Memorare, a centuries-old Marian prayer seeking divine intervention. Lay groups like the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) coordinated fasting chains, while social media campaigns under #PrayForThePope trended for days, uniting Nigerians across religious divides.
The Pope’s 2023 visit to Nigeria, during which he condemned corruption and interreligious violence, has deepened his connection to the nation. Many worshippers at vigils recounted his calls for unity, with one Lagos parishioner describing him as “a father to all Africans.” Yet concerns linger over the Church’s leadership stability, given this marks Francis’ fourth hospitalization since 2021.
As the Vatican prepares daily health briefings, Nigerian dioceses are adjusting liturgical plans for Lent, reflecting both hope and caution. For now, the faithful cling to moments of progress—like the Pope’s brief return to work—as signs of resilience. “We trust in God’s will,” said Abuja-based theologian Sister Grace Onyeka, “but our hearts remain restless until he recovers.”
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