The Francis Effect podcast: Pope's health; cuts to Medicaid; Shannon Evans on Lent

A handwritten sign with prayers for Pope Francis’ recovery is seen among candles and flowers at the base of a statue of St. John Paul II outside Rome’s Gemelli hospital Feb. 27, 2025. The pope has been hospitalized there since Feb. 14. (CNS/Lola Gomez)

A handwritten sign with prayers for Pope Francis’ recovery is seen among candles and flowers at the base of a statue of St. John Paul II outside Rome’s Gemelli hospital Feb. 27, 2025. The pope has been hospitalized there since Feb. 14. (CNS/Lola Gomez)

National Catholic Reporter senior correspondent Heidi Schlumpf, columnist Daniel Horan and David Dault continue Season 16 of "The Francis Effect."

Daniel, Heidi, and David look at the Republicans' recent attacks on Medicaid, and join their prayers with the world on behalf of the health of Pope Francis. Heidi interviews NCR's Shannon Evans about Lenten spirituality.

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This story appears in the Pope Francis' health crisis and Lent 2025 feature series.

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