Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
At this time of trial, I ask you to join me in prayer for our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who is facing serious illness. As the shepherd of the Church, he has carried the burdens of his office with great love and humility. Now, as he endures this moment of suffering, let us entrust him to the merciful hands of our Lord, the Divine Physician, asking for his healing, strength, and comfort.
I encourage you to remember Pope Francis in your prayers, at Mass, in your homes, and in your hearts. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, may Pope Francis be restored to strength. And may the Lord sustain him in his mission.
In Christ,
† Luis Rafael Zarama, J.C.L.
Bishop of Raleigh