Vatican City – Pope Francis had a restful tenth night at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment for double pneumonia, according to a statement released Monday morning by the Holy See Press Office.
“The night went well; the Pope slept and is resting,” the statement read, offering reassurance about the 87-year-old Pontiff’s condition.
Although his condition remains critical, the Holy See confirmed that Pope Francis has not suffered any respiratory crises since Saturday morning. Doctors continue to monitor his health closely, and on Sunday, he received blood transfusions to stabilise his haemoglobin levels.
“The thrombocytopenia remains stable; however, some blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control,” the Sunday statement noted, adding that the Pope is still receiving high-flow oxygen therapy through nasal cannulas.
Vatican Calls for Worldwide Prayer
As Pope Francis continues his recovery, the Vatican has called for intensified prayers. On Monday evening, cardinals, clergy, and faithful will gather in St. Peter’s Square at 9:00 PM to recite the Holy Rosary for his health.
“Starting this evening, the Cardinals residing in Rome, along with all collaborators of the Roman Curia and the Diocese of Rome, responding to the sentiments of the people of God, will gather in St. Peter’s Square at 9:00 PM to recite the Holy Rosary for the health of the Holy Father,” the Vatican announced. Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin will lead the prayer.
The Pope has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers from around the world. Despite his hospitalisation, he ensured that his Angelus address was published and distributed on Sunday, thanking the faithful for their support.
Special Masses Held for Pope’s Recovery
Throughout Sunday, various prayer services were held in honour of Pope Francis’ recovery. The Vicar General of Rome, Cardinal Baldassare Reina, celebrated a special Mass at the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran. Meanwhile, Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, President of Italy’s Episcopal Conference, led a rosary at the Basilica of San Domenico in Bologna.
The Vatican announced that the rosary prayer service in St. Peter’s Square will be broadcast live on Vatican News’ website and social media channels, allowing Catholics worldwide to join in solidarity for the Pope’s healing.
As Pope Francis remains under medical care, the global Catholic community continues to pray for his swift and complete recovery.