Pope Francis in Critical Condition; Vatican Says He Remains Alert and in Good Spirits

Pope Francis remains in critical condition at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, but the Vatican reports he is alert and in good spirits. The 87-year-old pontiff, battling double pneumonia, anemia, and mild kidney failure, has been hospitalized for over two weeks.

Over the weekend, Francis experienced a prolonged respiratory crisis that required supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions due to a low platelet count. His chronic lung disease, stemming from the removal of part of his lung as a young man, has complicated his recovery.

Globally, Catholics are offering prayers for the Pope’s health. Outside the hospital, candles, balloons, and handwritten messages reflect the public’s concern. In New York, Cardinal Timothy Dolan expressed the gravity of the situation at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, stating, “Pope Francis is in very, very fragile health and probably close to death,” though he later expressed hope for recovery.

Support extends far beyond Rome. In East Timor—where the Pope visited last year—faithful gathered to pray, while in Buenos Aires, his image was displayed on a local obelisk. In Vatican City, visitors like cousins Amy Etten and Kathy Gregory voiced their hopes for his recovery, saying, “We do hope he recovers. I love this Pope. I feel like he’s really moved the church forward.”

The Vatican has not indicated any immediate plans for succession but continues to provide updates on the Pope’s condition.