Ailing Pope sends blessing to Prince Rainier

Ailing Pope John Paul has sent a special blessing to Prince Rainier of Monaco, whose health continued to worsen today.

In a message sent yesterday, John Paul said he was united to the prince “in thoughts and prayer” and that he was sending heartfelt wishes.

“Entrusting in the intercession of the Virgin Mary, the Pope asks the Lord to give you comfort and the support of grace and accords the prince and his family a special apostolic blessing,” said the message.

In Monaco, the principality’s palace said today that the prince’s heart, lung and kidney functions were gradually worsening. The 81-year-old Rainier has ruled the Mediterranean principality since 1949.

Yesterday, Rainier’s son, Prince Albert, appeared on a palace balcony before subjects to pray for his father’s life.