Pope Francis’ condition ‘remains critical,’ Vatican says Sunday afternoon

A makeshift shrine with devotional candles, flowers, and images of Pope Francis appears outside Rome's Gemelli hospital on Feb. 22, 2025 | Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

By CNA Staff

Pope Francis’ condition “remains critical,” the Holy See Press Office says in a statement issued Sunday evening Rome time. However, it says he experienced “no further respiratory crisis” since Saturday.

The statement also says the Holy Father “continues to be alert and well oriented” and continues to receive oxygen therapy “at high flows” through his nose.

Since his situation is “complex,” the statement says, the pope’s prognosis “remains reserved.” His blood platelet count remained stable, the statement continues, but some blood tests showed “initial, mild, renal [kidney] failure” that is presently under control.

This morning the pope participated in Mass along with those who are caring for him at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, the statement said.