A girl named Valeria sends Pope Francis a card saying she hoped he would get well soon so that she could give him a hug. The Vatican press office brought the card from Pope Francis' room at Rome's Gemelli hospital Feb. 23, 2025, for reporters to see. (CNS photo/Cindy Wooden)

People pray for Pope Francis outside Gemelli hospital in Rome, the day after the Vatican warned the 88-year-old's condition was "critical". The Argentine pontiff, who is being treated for double pneumonia,

Pope Francis, who is being treated in hospital for double pneumonia, will not appear in public on Sunday to lead his usual prayer with pilgrims for a second consecutive week, the Vatican said. Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 after experiencing difficulty in breathing for several days.