Like Children Waiting For…: Vatican Nuns on Growing Inquiries About Pope Francis’s Health- wna24

Vatican City: A month ago, Pope Francis was admitted at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for treatment of double pneumonia, sparking widespread global concerns for his health. The  88-year-old pontiff underwent a series of treatments and rest, which rolled in numerous prayers and well-wishes from Catholics and Non-Catholics from all over the world, AP reported.

The Vatican’s helpline is staffed by devoted members of The Pious Disciples Sisters, who offer compassionate assistance and spiritual guidance to all the callers.

“They feel like children waiting to know about their father,” said Sister Anthony, who runs the operation in a spartan office steps away from St. Peter’s. Basilica. “We tell them to pray for him.”

She further added, “But if I can give consolation or hope, I think that’s OK.”

Also Read: How is Pope Francis? Doctors Give Big Health Update As World Prays for His Recovery

Ensuring a personal touch, the Sisters offer a human voice, rather than automated “press 1 for English, 2 for Latin”  responses. They are trained to either aid the callers with the help from directories and yearbooks or direct the call to the Vatican Office/Officials.

“It’s the Vatican’s voice — a voice that despite the digitalization of communications, the Vatican wants to preserve as a human voice,” said Mother Micaela, the order’s mother superior.

Since Pope Francis’ hospitalisation, the Sisters have reportedly received an exceptionally high volume of calls. Concerned people have reached out to inquire about the Pope’s health, offer their prayers and express well-wishes for his speedy recovery.

One of the many calls received was a woman who told Sister Anthony that she is Muslim but likes Francis, and wanted to inquire about his health.

“That’s very impressive for me,” the sister recalled, while adding that some callers are far less friendly. “Others are angry with the church, so we listen respectfully.”

Some have even requested to speak directly with the pope himself which has been declined.

“People of simple faith don’t understand that the pope cannot speak with everyone,” Sister Gabriella said.
Additionally, 2025 is the Catholic Holy Year, or Jubilee year, which is one of the Roman Catholic Church’s most important events and is expected to attract millions of visitors from all around the world.

Across the spectrum of callers, the sisters say they’re particularly happy to provide a woman’s touch.

“Pope Francis often reminds that the church is a mother,” Mother Micaela said. “And to be this voice, this sensibility, this feminine approach gives a sense of reliability.”