New Zealand Catholics wish Pope Francis a speedy and full recovery

Every Catholic in Aotearoa New Zealand will be mentioning Pope Francis in their prayers and wishing him a quick recovery from surgery, says Cardinal John Dew, President of the NZ Catholic Bishops Conference.

Pope Francis had a three-hour scheduled operation on Sunday in Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome for an issue with his colon.

“It is heartening to know that the Holy Father coped well with the surgery and is making a good recovery,” says Cardinal Dew, who is the Archbishop of Wellington.

“It says much about the Holy Father’s strength and devotion  that he gave his weekly public Angelus address at the Vatican as usual on Sunday before leaving for the hospital.

 “All the bishops, priests and indeed all Catholics in Aotearoa New Zealand are mentioning Pope Francis in their daily prayers this week and praying for his quick and full recovery from the operation.”

Pope Francis is expected to stay in Gemelli Hospital until at least next weekend.

Picture: Pope Francis giving his weekly Angelus address on Sunday before leaving for hospital and his operation.