(NewsNation) — Pope Francis had a “peaceful night” Saturday after receiving blood transfusions and high levels of oxygen to treat his double pneumonia, the Vatican said Sunday, but remains in “critical condition.”
Blood tests showed early kidney failure but he remains alert, responsive and attended Mass, the Vatican said, as the 88-year-old pontiff battles a complex lung infection.
Francis took to social media to express his gratitude to supporters, writing, “I’ve recently received many messages of affection, and I’ve been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children. Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world.”
The pontiff, who entered the papacy at age 76 in 2013, is being treated at Gemelli Hospital in Italy where he was initially admitted for bronchitis on Feb.14.
He has missed Sunday Mass in back-to-back weeks after suffering a severe and prolonged respiratory crisis requiring oxygen.
Though not on a ventilator, Francis is struggling to breathe and is keeping his movement limited, according to officials. Still, he remains alert, sitting upright, working and joking, though a bit more fatigued than the day before.
The pope also received blood transfusions after tests revealed thrombocytopenia, a condition of abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood.
Doctors said their biggest concern now is the risk of germs that could enter his bloodstream and cause sepsis, a life-threatening infection.
His medical team says he’s expected to return to the Vatican, which may be unsurprising, as he has said previously that the position of pope is a lifelong commitment.
Despite his illness, Francis mentioned the war in Ukraine, saying “Tomorrow (Feb. 23) will be the 3rd anniversary of the large-scale war against Ukraine. A pain. And shameful occasion for the whole of humanity,” going on to call for the “gift of peace in all armed conflicts around the world.”
Doctors said he will stay hospitalized at least through next weekend.
A mass for the pope in his native city of Buenos Aires, Argentina, is expected at 9:15 a.m. Sunday.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
