Sun Feb 23 20:08:17 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Remains in Critical Condition, Battling Pneumonia and Kidney Issues
**Rome, Italy –** Pope Francis remains in critical but stable condition at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, the Vatican announced Sunday. The 88-year-old pontiff is battling pneumonia, a complex lung infection, and has developed early-stage kidney failure. While his condition remains serious, the Vatican reported that he is alert, responsive, and attended Mass.
Although he experienced no further respiratory crises since Saturday, Pope Francis continues to receive high levels of supplemental oxygen. Doctors described the clinical picture as complex, and while the kidney failure is considered mild and under control, the overall prognosis remains guarded.
Concerns about the Pope’s health have spurred widespread prayers and well-wishes from around the globe. From Argentina, his homeland, to Cairo and even schoolchildren in Rome, expressions of support have flooded in. Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that the faithful are united “at the bedside of a dying father,” though he expressed hope for the Pope’s recovery.
Sunday’s scheduled Mass and deacon ordinations, part of the Vatican’s Holy Year commemorations, were conducted by Archbishop Rino Fisichella in the Pope’s stead. A pre-written message from the Pope, expressing his gratitude for prayers and mentioning the upcoming anniversary of the Ukraine invasion, was read in his absence.
The Pope’s condition has also reignited speculation regarding his potential resignation should his health deteriorate further. While the Vatican has not addressed this directly, the Pope’s age, pre-existing lung disease, and current fragility contribute to the uncertainty. His recent low platelet count and anaemia have been treated with blood transfusions and hematin therapy, showing some positive effects. Sepsis, a potential complication of pneumonia, has not yet been reported. Pope Francis was initially admitted to the hospital on February 14th after a bout of bronchitis worsened.
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