“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, in critical condition battling double pneumonia, had a "tranquil" night, was alert and had rested after a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions, the Vatican said on Sunday. The pope

The announcement on Saturday evening indicated that Francis’ medical condition had become more complicated since an update from his doctors on Friday.