Faithful gather in Buenos Aires to pray for the pontiff

In response to his hospitalization, hundreds of faithful gathered at Constitution Square in Buenos Aires for a special mass led by Archbishop Jorge Garcia Cueva, along with several bishops from the Archdiocese and dioceses of Buenos Aires province. The mass held particular significance as Francis, formerly known as Jorge Bergoglio, has not returned to his homeland since becoming Pope in 2013.

Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital due to double pneumonia, with his condition showing slight improvement according to the latest Vatican medical bulletin. The pontiff had a restful night with reduced oxygen support requirements and stabilized kidney function, though his situation remains critical given his age and medical history.

Churches across Argentina have been holding masses and displaying images in support of the pontiff, while thousands have assembled in St. Peter's Square, Rome, for prayer vigils led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin. These gatherings reflect the global Catholic community's concern for their spiritual leader.

Francis's current health challenge is complicated by his medical history, including the partial removal of one lung in his youth due to pleurisy, which has made him particularly susceptible to respiratory infections. Over recent years, he has faced various health issues, including knee problems and sciatica, occasionally requiring wheelchair use.

The Vatican maintains regular communication about the Pope's health status, emphasizing that while there are encouraging signs in his recovery, his condition warrants continued close monitoring. The global faithful continue their prayers and demonstrations of support as the pontiff battles this serious respiratory infection.

This health episode marks another significant challenge for Francis, who has experienced several health complications during his decade-long papacy since 2013.