National Black Church Initiative sends Pope Leo XIV get-well message

The National Black Church Initiative said Tuesday that its president, the Right Rev. Anthony Evans, sent Pope Leo XIV a private get-well note as the pontiff recovers from lung cancer surgery. The group said its faith communities are praying for the pope’s health and continued leadership.

Why it matters: - The National Black Church Initiative is using its platform to offer support to Pope Leo XIV during a serious health recovery. - The gesture highlights an interfaith show of concern from a coalition that represents 27.7 million members. - The pope’s recovery from lung cancer surgery makes the message more than ceremonial; it is tied to his ability to continue his duties.

What happened: - The Right Rev. Anthony Evans, president of the National Black Church Initiative, sent Pope Leo XIV a get-well note. - The message was sent on behalf of the National Black Church Initiative, a coalition of 150,000 African American and Latino faith communities. - The group said the note was intended to affirm Jesus’ divine healing power and to show that the Black Church is praying for the pope’s health.

The details: - Evans said he would not reveal the contents of the note because communication between clergy is private and sacred. - Evans said the note was based on Colossians 1:9. - The scripture quoted in the release says, “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” - NBCI describes itself as a coalition of 150,000 African American and Latino faith communities representing 27.7 million members. - NBCI says it works to eradicate racial disparities in healthcare, technology, education, housing, the environment and economic opportunity. - NBCI says its programs combine faith, credible research and practical strategies to address complex economic and social challenges.

Between the lines: - The note fits NBCI’s broader identity as a faith-based organization that also focuses on social and policy issues. - The release frames the pope’s recovery as a moment for prayer and spiritual solidarity rather than public commentary on his condition. - Evans’ emphasis on privacy suggests the message was meant as a pastoral outreach, not a publicity statement.

What's next: - NBCI did not announce any further action beyond the private note and public statement. - The pope’s recovery will remain the central issue as he continues healing from surgery. - NBCI’s public support may resonate with faith communities that see the pope’s health as spiritually and symbolically important.

The bottom line: - NBCI offered Pope Leo XIV a private, prayer-centered show of support as he recovers from lung cancer surgery.