In his prayer intention for April 2026, Pope Leo XIV asked the entire Church to offer prayers for priests experiencing crises in their vocation. The Pontiff reminded the Church that, although priests dedicate their lives to accompanying, supporting, and serving their communities, they too need to be cared for, listened to, and supported.

“Priests are called to be close pastors, but they too can go through periods in which loneliness weighs heavily, doubt clouds the heart, or weariness seems stronger than hope,” says the message released by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network.

The Holy Father encourages the faithful to be close to their priests “with listening, closeness, and gratitude,” acknowledging that those who care for us in the faith also need to be accompanied. “May they feel sustained by the prayers of their people and renewed in hope,” he adds.

Through  The Pope Video  and  The Pope Audio , available in several languages, all Catholics are invited to join in this monthly prayer for the challenges of humanity and the mission of the Church.

“ Take a moment, pray with the Pope ,” invites the Worldwide Prayer Network. To experience this prayer more deeply, you can visit the official website:

This initiative is part of the prayer intentions that Pope Leo XIV has entrusted to the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network for the year 2026, seeking to foster a Church that is closer, more supportive and attentive to the needs of its ministers.

In a world where the priestly ministry faces numerous challenges, the Pope’s call is clear:  let us not abandon those who guide us in faith . Prayer and concrete support from communities can be a true balm for those who have dedicated their lives to the service of the Gospel.

Join this worldwide chain of prayer this April. Pray with the Pope !