Catholics around the world are waiting and praying for Pope John Paul II, but Vatican officials concede he is nearing the end of his long, illustrious life. During a Mass for the pope's health, the vicar of Rome, said John Paul had "abandoned himself to the hands of Christ." In Poland, thousands gathered, many holding candles, in Krakow to honor their countryman.
Millions of Catholics around the world paused Friday to offer prayers for Pope John Paul II in hopes the ailing pontiff will recover.
As dusk fell, thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, where officials held a rosary service under the spotlights.
Lights burned in the papal apartments, high above the square.
At St. John Lateran Church in Rome, a special Mass was said for the pope's health. Cardinal Camillo Ruini, vicar of Rome, said John Paul II had "abandoned himself to the hands of Christ, with whom he has always lived, worked, suffered and had joy."
"We are taken over by an immense gratitude toward the man and toward God," Ruini said. "And now, as we pray for him, we hold on the will of God."
----
I enjoin my fellow roman catholics to pray for the Holy Father John Paul II during this time of hardship. The Holy Father has come to symbolize spiritual strength amid physical weakness. He has become, in the truest sense, the light of the world.
