Abinader Calls for Prayers for Pope Leo XIV and Dominican Families

During a moment of prayer in the Vatican gardens, Abinader was accompanied by First Lady Raquel Arbaje and an image of Our Lady of Altagracia, the spiritual patroness of the Dominican people. He invited those present to recite the Lord’s Prayer and asked God to guide the pontiff’s recovery.

Pope Leo XIV’s recovery and the 2027 visit proposal

Abinader’s appeal follows the Vatican’s announcement that Pope Leo XIV underwent successful lung surgery on October 13, 2026. Medical updates issued on October 15 reported that routine tests were normal and that an X-ray showed good recovery of the operated lung. The pontiff was also able to carry out daily activities independently and participate in physiotherapy, according to Vatican News.

The Dominican president had arrived in Rome on October 11 for official engagements at the Vatican and participation in activities connected with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). His agenda included plans to invite the pope to visit the Dominican Republic in 2027.

Abinader reiterated that invitation in his prayer, expressing his hope that Leo XIV would travel to the Caribbean nation next year. The pontiff previously visited the Dominican Republic when he was a priest, and the proposed trip would offer an opportunity for a return visit as pope. No confirmed date for a 2027 visit has been announced in the official information available.

Prayers for Dominican families at home and abroad

Beyond the pope’s health, Abinader dedicated part of his prayer to Dominican families, including those living overseas. He asked for divine protection, peace and unity for households throughout the country and among the Dominican diaspora.

He prayed for harmony within families and for the preservation of life and hope among the Dominican people. His remarks emphasized the importance of solidarity among citizens, regardless of whether they live in the Dominican Republic or abroad.

The prayer also reflected the president’s appeal for guidance in carrying out his responsibilities as head of state.

Abinader asks for wisdom in government

During the religious gathering, Abinader asked God for wisdom in governing, integrity in decision-making and strength to confront challenges. He also called for sensitivity toward the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.

He concluded by entrusting the mission of the Catholic Church to God, emphasizing its role in spreading the message of faith and salvation among peoples.

The appeal placed the health of the pope, the well-being of Dominican families and the responsibilities of public service at the center of the president’s prayer during his official stay in Rome.