Pope Francis' Health Update: "Night Went Well," According to Vatican

As Pope Francis faces critical health struggles, the Vatican reported that he had a restful night while receiving treatment for pneumonia and initial kidney failure.

Pope Francis remains hospitalized at the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome, where he has been receiving treatment for the past 10 days for pneumonia and related health issues. In a statement released by the Vatican on Monday morning, they confirmed that "the night went well," indicating that the 88-year-old pontiff was able to sleep and is currently resting comfortably. However, details regarding his health condition remain limited.

Following a recent episode involving an asthmatic respiratory crisis, the Vatican indicated that the pope's kidney problems—described as "initial, mild kidney failure"—are currently "under control." Tests have shown improvements in his anemia, attributed to recent blood transfusions, although he continues to be administered high levels of supplemental oxygen.

Pope Francis, who has encountered numerous health challenges in prior years, is said to be dealing with an increased awareness of his fragile state as he approaches the later stages of his life. Notably, Sergio Alfieri, part of his medical team, disclosed that the pope acknowledged, “both doors are open,” referring to his health prognosis.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan emphasized the gravity of the situation during a Sunday homily at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, noting that Pope Francis is in "very, very fragile health and probably close to death," and urged the congregation to join in prayer for the ailing leader.

Supporters and faithful followers of the Roman Catholic Church, representing nearly 1.4 billion members globally, have taken to various locations to hold vigils and prayers for the pontiff's recovery, including gatherings near the hospital where he is being treated, all the way to his homeland, Argentina, and South Korea.