Pope Leo XIV announced this Sunday, October 11, that he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a localized nodule in his lung, and he asked for our prayers.
As he prepares for surgery, we can support the Holy Father through prayer, small sacrifices, and acts of charity, asking God to watch over his health, his recovery, and those who will care for him.
Here are five things you can offer starting today:
1.Pray the Rosary with Your Family or Community
Pray the Rosary with your family or community, asking the Blessed Virgin Mary to accompany the Pope during his surgery and recovery. Remember to include his doctors and caregivers in your intentions.
We are in the month of the Rosary, and Leo XIV has a special devotion to Our Lady of Good Counsel that he has nurtured since his youth. Let us entrust his health to her maternal intercession.
2.Attend Mass One Extra Day This Week
In addition to attending Sunday Mass, why not attend Mass one extra day this week to pray especially for the Pope?
The Holy Father is mentioned in the Eucharistic Prayer as an expression of communion with him. This week, let us also offer our personal prayers for his health and recovery, asking the Lord to protect and strengthen him.
If your responsibilities allow, find a weekday Mass and devote that time to praying for him.
3.Offer a Small Sacrifice Made With Love
You can give up a treat, an unnecessary purchase, or some time spent on entertainment, offering that small sacrifice for the Pope’s health.
If you decide to spend less time on social media or in front of a screen, use a few of those minutes to pray for him. It is not about doing something extraordinary, but about making a concrete offering with love.
4.Show Love to Someone Who Is Suffering
This week, visit someone who is sick, spend time with someone who is lonely, or help a family in need.
You can also call someone who is going through a difficult time and listen attentively. Offer that act of charity for the Pope and for all those who are sick.
Let our prayers be accompanied by a tangible gesture of care for those who are suffering.
5.Offer Your Pain and Daily Difficulties for Him
Place in Jesus’ hands the fatigue, worries, illnesses, pain, and setbacks you are experiencing.
Without seeking suffering or neglecting your health, you can unite your difficulties to Christ and offer them for the Holy Father’s health and strength.
Let Us Unite in Prayer for the Holy Father
Lord Jesus, watch over Pope Leo XIV.
Guide his doctors, give him strength,
and grant him a full and speedy recovery,
according to your will.
Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Good Counsel,
pray for him.
Amen.