Pope's health prompts media speculation, prayers among Catholics

Published: 2003-10-06

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- At the beginning of one of the busiest months of his pontificate, Pope John Paul II's continuing health problems prompted speculation in the media, concern among some cardinals and prayers by the faithful. After announcing the names of 30 new cardinals Sept. 28, the 83-year-old pontiff carried out a full week of scheduled events -- holding talks with international leaders, meeting with bishops and church groups, presiding over a general audience, welcoming the new Anglican primate and celebrating a canonization Mass for three new saints. He went through his schedule appearing much as he has over the last few months: tired, unable to stand or walk, struggling at times to speak, but soldiering on to the end of each event. The pope suffers from a degenerative neurological disorder believed to be Parkinson's disease and has been slowed by arthritis of the knee and the effects of several surgeries.

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