The Vaccine-Skeptic Prelate’s Condition Worsens Despite Earlier Optimism
Cardinal Raymond Burke, a prominent Catholic figure known for his skepticism towards Covid-19 vaccines, is currently on a ventilator after contracting the virus in Wisconsin. The 73-year-old cardinal, who had announced his positive test last week while visiting his home state from Rome, requested prayers from his followers during his battle with the illness.
In a tweet, Burke stated, “Praised be Jesus Christ! I wish to inform you that I have recently tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Thanks be to God, I am resting comfortably and receiving excellent medical care. Please pray for me as I begin my recovery. Let us trust in Divine Providence. God bless you.”
Unfortunately, his condition has deteriorated, necessitating his admission to a hospital where he is being supported by a ventilator. A spokesperson provided an update on his Twitter account, noting, “Cardinal Burke has been admitted to the hospital with COVID-19 and is being assisted by a ventilator. Doctors are encouraged by his progress. H.E. faithfully prayed the Rosary for those suffering from the virus. On this Vigil of the Assumption, let us now pray the Rosary for him.”
Despite the seriousness of his situation, Cardinal Burke has often been seen without a mask in public. It remains unclear whether he has received the Covid-19 vaccine, although he has expressed anti-vaccine sentiments in the past.
In May 2020, he remarked, “Vaccination itself cannot be imposed, in a totalitarian manner, on citizens.” He also shared conspiracy theories during the same address, suggesting that vaccination efforts were part of a plot to inject microchips into people, enabling state control over individuals’ health and personal matters.