MONTREAL — The Archdiocese of Montreal has confirmed that Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte is gravely ill and has been hospitalized.
The 78-year-old has suffered from several health issues related to diabetes.
In a message on its website, the Archdiocese is asking for Montrealers to pray for Turcotte, who is reportedly receiving end-of-life care.
“Let us pray fervently for Cardinal Turcotte, for his health to improve and for there to be peace in his heart and soul.”
Turcotte was the Archbishop of Montreal for 22 years, from 1990-2012. He retired when he reached the maximum age limit to hold that position.
He was named Cardinal in 1994 by Pope Jean-Paul II, and participated in two papal conclaves to choose Pope Benedict and Pope Francis.
Read the full statement from the Archdiocese of Montreal:
Today, on this feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, we are invited to share in the suffering of others. Our Cardinal, Jean-Claude Turcotte, who was our archbishop for many years and is currently in hospital, has been experiencing serious health problems for some time. Let us pray fervently for Cardinal Turcotte, for his health to improve and for there to be peace in his heart and soul.
Pax Bonum
Msgr Michel Parent
Vicar General
Tributes to the Cardinal have been pouring in on social media, including one from Canada’s Prime Minister, Stephen Harper.
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