Pope Francis has acknowledged the three year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine from his hospital bed, as the Vatican organises a prayer service of healing for him.
In a message read out on his behalf at the Vatican’s Sunday prayers, Francis called the war’s anniversary a “painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity”.
“As I reiterate my closeness to the Ukrainian people, I invite you to remember the victims of all armed conflicts," he said, "and to pray for the gift of peace in Palestine, Israel and throughout the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu and Sudan.”
The Vatican says it will hold a rosary prayer for him in St. Peter’s Square, at 9pm 24th February. Prayers will be led by the Vatican’s secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Catholics have packed out the chapel at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where Francis is being treated, for a Eucharistic Adoration and Holy Mass.
The Vatican say he is receiving oxygen and is in good spirits, but has developed a kidney infection.