WASHINGTON, April 1 (UPI) -- President and first lady Laura Bush joined millions of others around the world in praying for Pope John Paul II, the White House said Friday.
"The president and Mrs. Bush join people all across the world who are praying for the Holy Father. He is in our thoughts and prayers at this time," spokesman Scott McClellan said. "The outpouring of love and concern from so many, including millions of Americans, attests to his greatness."
McClellan said Bush was receiving regular updates on the ailing pontiff through U.S. representatives to the Vatican and from Chief of Staff Andrew Card. Card personally briefed the president Thursday night and again first thing Friday.
In addition, the United States was in contact with the Vatican.
The pope, who suffers from Parkinson's disease, is said in grave but stable condition in his Vatican apartment.
McClellan dismissed as premature and inappropriate any discussion of who would represent the United States at a funeral for the pontiff.
