By Cecilia Odeh
The Holy See on Tuesday said Pope Francis “rested well” during his 11th night in hospital in Rome.
In spite of a slightly improved condition, the Vatican said that the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church remained in a critical condition.
Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital with a respiratory infection and was later diagnosed with double pneumonia. He first caught the infection in mid-December.
On Sunday, a statement said he had also developed a slight kidney insufficiency. This followed an acute breathing crisis on Saturday, during which he was given oxygen.
Thousands of believers from around the world participated in a rosary prayer for the pope’s recovery on Monday, which is to be held nightly.
More than two dozen cardinals took part in the prayer service from St Peter’s Square, which was let by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.
“For 2,000 years the Christian people have prayed for the pope when he was in danger or sick,” Parolin said during the prayer.
Ahead of the rosary prayer, the pope had thanked people in a written message for their support.
The Argentinian, who is the second oldest pope in history, has led the Catholic Church since March 2013. (dpa/NAN)
