Pope Francis, who is battling a severe lung infection, spent a stable night in hospital without further complications, the Vatican confirmed on Wednesday.
The 88-year-old pontiff had a “peaceful night” and is currently resting, a Vatican spokesperson said.
Pope Francis has been receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since mid-February, marking his longest hospital stay since assuming the papacy in 2013.
A health bulletin issued on Tuesday evening described his condition as “critical but stable,” noting that he had not experienced further breathlessness since the weekend and that his blood values remained steady.
Across the world, prayers continue for the pope’s recovery. On Tuesday evening, faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square for a rosary in his honor.
The Vatican is providing daily updates on his health, releasing reports in the morning and evening.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Catholic Church, has guided its 1.4 billion members since March 2013.
