“Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he continues to receive in these hours,” the Vatican statement said. The pope expressed particular gratitude for the well wishes he received from his fellow patients in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and asked for continued prayers.

Pope Francis remains in critical condition, according to the Vatican, with blood tests showing mild signs of kidney failure "which is currently under control," the Vatican said on Sunday, as the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia in both his lungs,