Mon Feb 24 15:44:21 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis’ Condition Remains Critical as Vatican Holds Nightly Prayers

**Rome, February 24, 2025** – Pope Francis remains in critical condition at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, battling a complex lung infection and early-stage kidney insufficiency, prompting the Vatican to announce nightly prayers in St. Peter’s Square beginning Monday. The prayers, reminiscent of those held before the death of Pope John Paul II, are open to the public.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s No. 2, will lead the first prayer service. While the 88-year-old pontiff is reportedly awake and in good spirits, not in pain, and not requiring artificial nutrition, his condition remains precarious. Doctors describe his prognosis as guarded, citing his age, fragility, and pre-existing lung disease as significant risk factors. The primary concern remains the possibility of sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.

This marks Pope Francis’ longest hospitalization as pontiff, surpassing his 10-day stay in 2021 following a colon resection. While the Vatican’s official statements remain cautiously optimistic, Cardinal Timothy Dolan in New York acknowledged the gravity of the situation, referring to the faithful’s prayers for their “dying father.” However, he also expressed hope for the Pope’s recovery.

Despite the critical nature of his condition, the Pope reportedly attended Mass on Sunday and has not experienced any further respiratory crises since Saturday. Blood tests revealed early-stage kidney insufficiency, which is currently under control. The Pope continues to receive supplemental oxygen. A further medical bulletin is expected. The atmosphere at the Gemelli hospital is described as somber, yet filled with fervent prayers for the Pope’s recovery.

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