*Cardinal Gracias Suffering From Cancer* *By SAR NEWS*
*MUMBAI, **Maharashtra** (SAR NEWS) --* Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the Archbishop of Bombay, is suffering from a rare form of cancer, it was revealed here. The 63-year-old prelate underwent surgery in Washington, September 18. His illness, which was kept "confidential" till last week, was made public by Auxiliary Bishop Bosco Penha of Bombay. The news was also published in the archdiocese's official weekly 'Examiner'. The cancer is said to have affected the archbishop's appendix. In the circular posted on the archdiocesan website October 4, Bishop Penha said, "I feel sad and distressed to inform the clergy, the religious and the faithful of the archdiocese that Cardinal Oswald is suffering from health problems. Some weeks ago, he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, for which the best treatment available is in Washington (United States). At that time it was thought better to keep the matter confidential. The surgery took place on Thursday September 18, 2008 and we are informed that he is responding well to the treatment. "Keeping in mind the importance of Cardinal Oswald's position in the archdiocese (as archbishop), in the country (as president of the CCBI and vice-president of the CBCI) and in the Universal Church (he is now cardinal), it is imperative that we enter into a period of fervent and sustained prayer for Cardinal Oswald's quick return to complete health and strength. I request that all parishes conduct a holy hour as soon as possible for this intention. He is a young Cardinal and needed in the Church for many more years to come." Archdiocese's spokesperson Father Anthony Charanghat said that before the archbishop left for Rome, he was diagnosed with cancer and it was suggested that he get treated in Washington. "The cancer was in the initial stages and there is no cause for worry." Cardinal Gracias is expected to leave Washington for Rome on October 18 and will return to Mumbai 10 days later.
