Prayers for Cardinal George, Hospitalized Once Again

Cardinal Francis George, retired archbishop of the Archdiocese of Chicago, is back in the hospital.  I’ve kept you posted in the past regarding the state of his health, after cancer metastasized from his bladder to his kidney and liver, then recurred in his right kidney.   The cardinal himself has acknowledged that this disease will eventually claim his life; but in the meantime, he has continued to be an inspiration to countless followers who admire his calm acceptance and faith in this, his greatest crisis.

Today the Archdiocese of Chicago posted a notice on the website, asking for continued prayer.

Apparently, though, His Eminence is still feeling well enough to write.  Today–March 3, 2015–he announced that he’s going to be writing several times a week on the Cardinal George’s Network, addressing topics in faith, spirituality and discipleship.

Even in his illness, he continues to lead.  In today’s message, he explains:

Dear Friend,

Over a year ago, as my treatment for cancer intensified, I found myself unable to contribute personally to this network of electronic relationships.  Those who have been part of it over some years know that the communion of saints is a mystery of faith that is deeply embedded in my spirituality.  Including in the network the saint of each day in the liturgical calendar seemed a good way to enlarge the network itself and keep it from completely disappearing.

Now in my retirement, I would like to begin a new chapter in the life of the network, changing its name to “Cardinal George’s Network” and committing myself to one or two reflections a week on faith, spirituality and discipleship.  Many have kept in touch through this electronic network.  I hope my prayers and comments have been as useful to their spiritual lives as their prayers and comments have been encouraging and inspiring for mine.  God bless you.

Francis Cardinal George, OMI

Prayers for Cardinal George, that he will continue to fulfill his mission and that, if it be God’s will, he be granted a long time among his fellow believers here on earth.