Pope John Paul II was given the last rites of the Roman Catholic Church late Thursday night as his health deteriorated, according to a Vatican source.

Pope John Paul 11 was also given last rites when he was shot in 1981. It is part of church practise to give last rites to those that are seriously ill.

A Vatican spokesman confirmed reports from the Italian media that the Pontiff, who is suffering from a very high fever caused by a urinary infection, received the sacrament earlier today after doctors inserted a tube in his throat to ease his breathing.

The pontiff remains at the Vatican and is on antibiotics. Some reports are saying the 84 year old is not being taken to hospital because he is so frail.
photo: MSNBC

Terri Schiavo
The 41 year old woman at the centre of one of the most litigated family disputes in US history died this morning at a hospice in Florida.

Almighty God, Father of all mercies and giver of all comfort: Deal graciously, we pray thee, with those who mourn, that casting every care on thee, they may know the consolation of thy love, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Book of Common Prayer 1979