Cameroonian bishops have expressed solidarity and concern for Pope Francis’ health, as they plead for God to restore his wellbeing.

By Magnus Ful

Bishops from Cameroon have come together to offer prayers for the quick recovery of Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized since February 14, 2025, due to pneumonia at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

During the prayer event at Mary Queen of the Apostles’ Basilica in Mvolyé, Yaoundé, on March 3, 2025, His Grace Jean Mbarga, the Archbishop of Yaoundé, addressed the congregation regarding the implications of Pope Francis’ health concerns. He pointed out that the Pope’s ongoing health challenges have led to a significant leadership vacuum within the Church, even as he continues to fulfill his substantial papal responsibilities.

“Pope Francis has appointed 13 out of the 26 bishops in the country, impacting every ecclesiastical province. As a result, the bishops feel a deep connection to him, making his current health issue a matter of great concern. We have gathered as a conference to pray for his recovery, as Pope Francis has significantly influenced our work,” stated His Grace Andrew Fuanya Nkea, Archbishop of Bamenda and president of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC), during a post-mass press interview. He expressed hope for the Pope’s swift recovery and continued leadership of the Church.

Archbishop Jean Mbarga emphasized the profound connection between the Pope and the church during the gathering, stating, “When the Pope is sick, it is the whole church that is sick; therefore, it is our duty to pray for him.” His remarks came as he expressed gratitude to the more than 5,000 Christian faithful, including bishops, religious, and administrative authorities who assembled for the prayer event. The archbishop described the occasion as an important ecclesiastical gesture.

Closely following the recent prayer event in Yaoundé, the Holy See Press Office issued a statement revealing that Pope Francis suffered two instances of acute respiratory insufficiency. The incidents were attributed to a buildup of mucus, which was cleared on both occasions.

“I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all Cameroonians who prayed for the Holy Father’s health. Let’s remember that our brother bishops were the first in the world to gather as an episcopal conference and hold a holy mass for his wellbeing. We are grateful for their efforts.” Said José Avelino Bettencourt, Apostolic Noncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea

The Archbishop of Yaoundé urged attendees at the event to seize the occasion to deepen their faith in God. He stressed the importance of maintaining belief even amid illness, noting that while the Pope may be physically unwell, his spiritual strength remains unshakable.

In the coming days, bishops are expecting a positive response from God through the intercession of Mary, Queen of the Apostles, and Saint Peter, the first Pope, as per Church tradition.