The Digester
religion

Pope asks faithful to pray for priests facing crisis

In an April video for the Pray with the Pope campaign, the Pope called for prayer and communal support for priests who are struggling with loneliness, doubt and exhaustion.

Mar 31st 2026 · Holy See (Vatican City State)

Insights

  • The Pope released an April prayer intention video asking prayers for priests who feel lonely, doubtful or exhausted.
  • He urged the faithful to listen without judging, thank without demanding perfection, and accompany priests with closeness and sincere prayer.
  • The Pope emphasized that priests are beloved children and pastors sustained by the prayer of their people, not isolated heroes or mere officials.
  • He asked that priests be supported by healthy friendships, fraternal support networks and a sense of humor when plans fail.
  • The Pope's Worldwide Prayer Network says it reaches over 22 million people in more than 90 countries and was founded in 1844 as the Apostleship of Prayer, later established as a Vatican foundation in December 2020 with statutes approved in July 2024.

Sources