On Sunday (May 18), former President Joe Biden revealed he’s been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Numerous church and political leaders responded with well wishes and prayers for Biden, a Democrat and devout Catholic, while others said they suspected coverup or scandal.
According to an announcement from his office, Biden’s cancer “appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management.” The former president and his family “are reviewing treatment options with his physicians,” his office added.
Biden, 82, withdrew from the 2024 presidential race last summer, after performing poorly in a debate against Republican candidate Donald Trump. Opponents questioned Biden’s cognitive and physical fitness, but White House doctors had given him a clean bill of health in February 2024.
On Monday (May 19), Biden shared a photo with wife Jill, writing, “Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support.”
During his presidency, Biden prioritized cancer research, aiming to slash death rates from the disease. His son Beau died of brain cancer in 2015.
Leaders Request Prayers for Joe Biden
News of Joe Biden’s diagnosis led to calls for prayer from church leaders. “Let’s all be praying for @JoeBiden as he battles cancer,” posted California Pastor Greg Laurie. “May the Lord bring healing—whether through a miracle or through medical treatment. And let’s remember to lift up his family as well during this difficult time. ‘The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.’”
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North Carolina Pastor Clint Pressley, president of the Southern Baptist Convention, wrote, “Praying for former president Joe Biden as he and his family grapple with a difficult diagnosis. Praying the Lord is merciful.”
“Praying for President Biden and his family as they walk through this battle with cancer,” wrote Georgia Pastor Jentezen Franklin.
Political leaders also offered support and prayers. Kamala Harris, who served as Biden’s vice president and became the 2024 Democratic nominee after he withdrew, said he’s in her family’s “hearts and prayers during this time.” Harris called Biden “a fighter” who “will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership.”
, former President Joe Biden revealed he’s been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Numerous church and political leaders responded with well wishes and prayers for Biden, while others said they suspected coverup or scandal.){kind=link}