In Latin America, Francis remains well-liked, though favorability has dropped, particularly in Argentina, where it fell from 98% in 2013 to 74% in 2024. Despite declines, he continues to be viewed as a transformative figure.

Argentines pray for Pope Francis' health at Buenos Aires cathedral Mass

The Vatican says Pope Francis remains in critical condition and blood tests show early kidney failure but he remains alert and “well-oriented.” Prayers for him poured in from around the world, from his native Argentina to the seat of Sunni Islam in Cairo to schoolchildren in Rome.

People attend a Mass to pray for Pope Francis' health in Constitution square in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. —The Associated Press About this program Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises.

Catholic leaders called upon the faithful to pray for Pope Francis in Italy and his native Argentina on Wednesday, after the 88-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with pneumonia the previous day.

Pope Francis is sitting upright and continuing to receive treatment for double pneumonia, more than a week after he was admitted to a hospital in Rome. The Vatican said the pope had a peaceful night and was sitting in his armchair on Wednesday receiving therapy.

Our community is living these days of apprehension in prayer,” said Father Fernando Laguna. “It’s the only way we can be close to the pope. It’s our way of sending him a big kiss and hug.”

Francis is continuing his therapy for bronchitis and pneumonia, but the Vatican provided no indication of when he might be released from the hospital.

Francis was hospitalized Feb. 14 after struggling to speak and breathe during public appearances for more than a week.

A scholar of global Catholicism writes how Francis has opened the church to the outside world in ways no pope had done before.