Brasilia (Fides Service) - The Bishops of the standing Council of the Brazilian Bishops’ Conference issued a statement on 24 February calling the nation to pray for the health of Pope John Paul II. In the statement signed by Cardinal Geraldo Maiella Agnelo, President of the Bishops’ Conference the Bishops express their closeness to the Holy Father at this time of suffering. They say they are following the news of his condition with trepidation and they are praying confidently “that God will comfort and strengthen the Pope in his suffering”. The Bishops encourage the clergy and religious communities to organise special prayers for the speedy recovery of the Pontiff. (RZ) (Agenzia Fides 25/2/2005; righe 8, parole 108)