Pope Francis is still in critical condition at an Italian hospital, battling “mild renal insufficiency” alongside bilateral pneumonia treatment.
The pontiff, receiving care at Gemelli University Hospital in Rome, is alert and participated in Mass on Sunday. Since his admission on February 14th, he has been combatting pneumonia and a complex lung infection.
The Vatican reported that despite his critical state, the 88-year-old pope did not endure additional respiratory crises since Saturday evening. The Holy See Press Office released a comprehensive update on his health.
“He received two units of concentrated red blood cells with benefit, and his hemoglobin levels have risen,” the report noted.
Deacons take part in a mass for their jubilee in St. Peter’s Basilica at The Vatican, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, that was supposed to be presided over by Pope Francis who was admitted over a week ago at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic and is in critical condition. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
The statement came after Pope Francis published a message of his own on X, thanking the international Catholic community for their prayers. He had suffered a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis on Saturday, a condition worsened by the fact that he had part of one of his lungs removed when he was younger.
“I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” Pope Francis posted on X Sunday. “Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!”Â
Pope Francis holds his homily during the weekly General Audience at the Paul VI Hall on February 12, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican. (REUTERS/Ciro De Luca/File Photo)
“I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the #GospelOfTheDay suggests,” another post of his read. “May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to take risks for love!”Â
EDITOR’S NOTE: This report has been updated to clarify the Vatican’s comments about Pope Francis’ condition.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
