The Vatican has reported that Pope Francis remains in critical condition, with blood tests revealing mild signs of kidney failure, which is currently under control. The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to a clinic in Rome on February 14 for tests related to a respiratory tract infection and was later diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs following a CT scan.
In a statement issued on Sunday, February 23, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis has not experienced further respiratory crises since the previous evening. However, some blood tests indicated “an initial, mild, renal failure,” which is being managed. The statement added that the Pope remains “vigilant and well oriented.”
Despite his condition, Pope Francis participated in the Holy Mass from his hospital apartment on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital on Sunday morning, alongside his medical team. The Vatican noted that the complexity of his clinical situation and the need to monitor the effects of his treatment mean that his prognosis remains reserved.
Earlier on Sunday, the Vatican revealed that the Pope had required high-flow oxygen after a respiratory crisis but had a peaceful night in the hospital. Due to his pneumonia diagnosis, Francis will remain hospitalized and did not deliver the weekly Angelus prayer—only the third time he has missed it during his nearly 12-year papacy.
In a pre-released text of his Sunday sermon, Pope Francis expressed gratitude to the medical staff for their dedication and assured the public that his treatment is ongoing.
Earlier in the week, the Pope’s condition had shown signs of improvement, with the Vatican stating on Thursday that he was responding “positively” to medical treatment for pneumonia.
Pope Francis has a history of respiratory issues, including a severe bout of pneumonia in his youth that led to the removal of part of one lung. In recent years, he has faced other health challenges, including surgery for diverticulitis in 2021, hospitalization for bronchitis in 2023, and injuries from two falls that resulted in a bruised chin and an arm injury requiring a sling.
This hospitalization marks the second-longest period Pope Francis has spent in the hospital since becoming pope, and it will set a new record if he remains hospitalized beyond Monday.
