Pope Francis in Critical Condition as Global Prayers Continue

The 88-year-old Pontiff remains hospitalized in Rome with a severe lung infection, showing slight improvement but still facing significant health challenges.

Pope Francis has been in Rome's Gemelli Hospital for over 11 days due to a severe bilateral pneumonia and remains in critical condition, though some lab values have improved.
The Vatican reports that the Pope had a stable night and has resumed light work, but doctors caution that his overall prognosis remains uncertain given his age and complex health issues.
The Pontiff continues to receive oxygen therapy and treatment for a mild kidney insufficiency, which is currently not a major concern according to medical updates.
Thousands of faithful around the world, including in his native Argentina, have gathered for prayer vigils, with nightly rosary sessions now held on St. Peter's Square in Rome.
Speculation about a potential papal succession has intensified, though Vatican officials and close associates have condemned such discussions as premature and disrespectful.