Pope Prays for JFK's Ailing Sister

Pope Benedict XVI is praying for former President John F. Kennedy's sister Eunice Kennedy Shiver as she remains in critical condition at a Massachusetts hospital.

The 88-year-old Shriver has been hospitalized since last week. Members of her extended family have gathered at her bedside at Cape Cod Hospital in Barnstable.

The Vatican ambassador to the United States says in a letter released to The Associated Press on Monday the pope is "holding close to his heart Eunice as she is called home to eternal life."

Archbishop Pietro Sambi says the pope prays Shriver is rewarded for her ardent faith and generous public service, particularly for those who are physically and mentally challenged.

Shriver organized the first Special Olympics in 1968. She was inspired in part by the struggles of her mentally disabled sister, Rosemary Kennedy.