**Pope Francis' Health Update: Condition Remains Critical, Encourages Prayers**

Despite remaining critically ill, the Pope is showing signs of resilience and active engagement at the hospital.

Pope Francis remains in a "critical" condition, as announced by the Vatican on Sunday, although the pontiff "has not presented any further respiratory crises." The Pope is currently undergoing high-flow oxygen therapy and has received blood transfusions in response to mild kidney problems. Fortunately, he remains "alert and well oriented," according to the recent statement.

Admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to breathing difficulties, the Pope was initially treated for bronchitis before being diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs. The Vatican's latest update follows a report from Saturday that indicated the Pope had experienced a respiratory crisis, heightening concern for his health.

Earlier on Sunday, Pope Francis expressed a desire for prayers from Catholics worldwide after being unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person for the second straight week. Despite his health challenges, the Pope participated in a Holy Mass in the morning with those who have been caring for him during his recovery.

The 86-year-old Pope, who hails from Argentina, is particularly vulnerable to pneumonia after experiencing pleurisy as a younger man, leading to a partial lung removal. Over his 12-year tenure, he has faced multiple hospitalizations, including a bronchitis treatment at the same facility in March 2023.

As the first Latin American and first Jesuit to lead the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis has been an influential figure in global Catholicism.