In Pics: South Africans unite for Nelson Mandela 7 Photos . Updated: 27 Jun 2013, 05:03 PM IST Livemint As the health of Nelson Mandela continues to deteriorate, South Africans have been coming together to pray for the great leader. While some sought his recovery, others have even bid him adieu thanking him for all that he has done. 1/7A child holds a candle as he prays for Nelson Mandela, outside the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital where he is being treated in Pretoria. Mandela has been in hospital since 8 June. AFP 2/7Ndileka Mandela, grand-daughter of former South African President Nelson Mandela arrives at the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital. AFP 3/7A group of well-wishers hold up candles outside the hospital as they pray for the recovery of Mandela. Hundreds continue to gather outside the Pretoria hospital with messages of support for their beloved Madiba. AFP 4/7A man paints a portrait of Nelson Mandela outside the hospital. Mandela has been hospitalised four times since December, mostly for a recurring lung infection dating back to his time in jail for protesting against the apartheid government. Reuters 5/7Mandela’s relatives leave flowers outside the hospital. Mandela is on life support in the hospital. South Africa President Jacob Zuma also cancelled a trip to Mozambique after he visited Mandela, who has been critical for several days. AFP 6/7The shadow of a young girl is cast on a banner in honour of Nelson Mandela. As messages poured in from supporters for the well being of the 94-year-old leader, some also seemed resigned to the prospect of his death. AFP 7/7A well-wisher carries a portrait of Nelson Mandela outside the Pretoria hospital. Mandela retired from public life in 2004 and has played no active role in the ruling African National Congress since then concentrating instead on charitable work. Reuters