Pope Francis remains in critical condition, the Vatican confirmed on Sunday, with blood tests indicating mild signs of kidney failure, though it is currently under control. The 88-year-old pontiff is battling pneumonia in both lungs and has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14, according to CNN.
The Vatican further stated that the Pope has not faced any additional respiratory crises since Saturday evening. While his blood tests showed early signs of renal failure, the situation is under management, and Pope Francis remains “vigilant and well-oriented.”
Despite his ongoing treatment, Pope Francis participated in the Holy Mass from his hospital apartment on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital on Sunday morning, along with those caring for him during his hospitalization.
The Vatican emphasized that the complex nature of the Pope’s condition and the need to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing therapies means the prognosis remains uncertain.
In a post shared on X, Pope Francis expressed gratitude for the worldwide support he has received. He wrote, “I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children. Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!”
The Pope had previously experienced a prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis that required high-flow oxygen, Vatican News reported. According to the latest update, Pope Francis had a peaceful ninth night at the hospital, though his condition remains critical. Vatican News reiterated that the Pope is still not out of danger.