While Pope Francis remains hospitalized, Connecticut's Catholic community is sharing support through prayers.

"Prayers make a significant impact," says Dr. Francis Origanti, from Sacred Heart University. "No matter where you are, they play a very important role."

News of the Pope's condition has sent shockwaves through the Sacred Heart University community.

“Everybody has some feelings about it, even if you’re not Catholic," says University chaplain Fr. Emiel Abalahin. "“He’s made such an impact on the world, and not just for Catholics."

Pope Francis has been at top of mind at every service since being hospitalized, and the community has spent hours praying for him at masses and during eucharistic adoration.

“Even in difficult situations," says Fr. Abalahin. "We’re all connected through faith and in God."

An on-campus residence hall at Sacred Heart bears Pope Francis' birth name.

Jorge Bergoglio Hall was dedicated back in 2016.

The Vatican says the pope is in critical but stable condition.

The 88-year old has shown some improvement since being hospitalized two weeks ago.