Lee National Newsroom, The Associated Press Feb 25, 2025 3 mins ago 0 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.

A woman holds religious images during a Mass to pray for Pope Francis' health at Constitucion square in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)

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.

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.

Pope Francis was a frequent visitor to Rome long before he became pope. ROME (AP) — Pope Francis was a frequent visitor to Rome long before he became pope, and over time found his favorite shops and artisans who are now pulling for him as he battles double pneumonia.