Pope Francis facing early stages of kidney failure

The Pope has been battling pneumonia and a complex lung infection for weeks.

He is also suffering from early-stage kidney failure amid his treatment.

Now, the Vatican announces that Francis’ condition remains critical.

Had part of his lung removed

Pope Francis, 88, is suffering from bilateral pneumonia. According to the Vatican, the Holy Father’s condition is critical. The news of the pope’s worsening health was announced last Friday.

Since then, he has been hospitalized and he’s currently staying at the Gemelli University Hospital in Rome. On Sunday, the Holy See Press Office shared an update on the pope’s health, saying that while his condition “remains critical,” he has not had any further respiratory crises since Saturday evening.

The past weekend, he experienced a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, made worse by the fact that he had part of one of his lungs removed when he was younger.

Receiving oxygen

The Vatican reports that the pope’s low platelet count remains stable. However, some blood tests show early signs of mild kidney issues, which are currently under control.

”He received two units of concentrated red blood cells with benefit, and his hemoglobin levels have risen,” the report said.

Pope Francis is also receiving oxygen but “remains alert and well-oriented.”

Doctors say his condition is complex, and it will take time for treatments to show results. Because of this, his prognosis remains uncertain. Corriere Della Sera reports that the pope is expected to remain in the hospital for at least another week.

Participated in Holy Mass

Despite his health challenges, the pope participated in a Holy Mass this morning in his hospital apartment on the tenth floor, joined by those caring for him.

The statement was released after Pope Francis shared a message on X, thanking the global Catholic community for their prayers.

”I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” Pope Francis posted on X Sunday and added:

”Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!”

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, has led the Catholic Church since 2013 as its first Latin American pope. Known for his humility, focus on social justice, and efforts to reform the Church, he remains a significant spiritual leader for millions worldwide.