Fr Benedict Groeschel critical but stable after accident

Father Benedict Groeschel, a founder member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, writer and well-known television personality, is in critical condition in hospital after being hit by a car in Florida on Sunday.

The elderly priest was in Orlando for a speaking engagement. The accident happened as he was walking to a restaurant near the Orlando International Airport. He is in stable but critical condition in the intensive care unit of an Orlando hospital.

Sources said he has a broken leg, a broken arm, and may have suffered a heart attack, among other injuries.

Fr Benedict, who lives in New York City, is a founder of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, based in New York City's Bronx neighbourhood, which split off from the Capuchins in 1987 to pursue radical poverty and to evangelize and give pro-life witness.

He is the author of more than 20 best-selling books, including "The Cross at Ground Zero" and "A Still, Small Voice: A Practical Guide on Reported Revelations."

Fr Benedict is also a well-known presenter on the EWTN Catholic cable network. The station has been asking for prayers for his recovery.