ROME (AP) — Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he continues to battle pneumonia and a complex lung infection at the age of 88. Recent blood tests indicated signs of early kidney failure, though the Vatican reported that the pontiff remains alert and responsive, even attending Mass.

According to the latest update from the Vatican, there have been no respiratory crises since Saturday night, but the Pope still requires high-flow supplemental oxygen. Although some tests indicated “initial, mild kidney failure,” doctors reassured that it is currently managed.

The medical team emphasized that the complexity of the situation and the need for further evaluation of treatment responses mean that the prognosis remains cautious. “The intricacy of the clinical scenario necessitates a careful outlook,” said Pope Francis’s doctors.

Prayers are being offered for Pope Francis worldwide, from his home country of Argentina to the center of Sunni Islam in Cairo and even schoolchildren in Rome.

In New York, Cardinal Timothy Dolan openly acknowledged the heavy hearts of church leaders and believers worldwide, stating that the faithful are united “at the bedside of a dying father.”

“As our Holy Father is in a very, very fragile state, he’s likely nearing death,” Dolan remarked during his homily at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Nevertheless, he expressed hope that Francis might “bounce back.”

Medical experts indicate that the Pope’s condition is precarious due to his age, fragility, and pre-existing lung issues, sparking further discussions about the potential implications if he becomes incapacitated or chooses to resign.

Global Prayers for the Pope

Pope Francis was scheduled to celebrate Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica and ordain deacons as part of the Holy Year celebrations. Instead, Archbishop Rino Fisichella led the prayers in his absence, invoking a special blessing for the Pope during the service.

Despite being hospitalized, Fisichella affirmed, “We feel Pope Francis present among us.” A pre-recorded message intended for the Pope to deliver during Mass expressed his commitment to treatment at Gemelli Hospital while requesting continued prayers from the public.

In Buenos Aires, candles flickered outside the city’s cathedral, and the iconic obelisk was illuminated with the message “Francis, the city prays for you.”

In Cairo, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, the grand imam of Al-Azhar, extended his wishes for a swift recovery to Pope Francis, reinforcing their shared commitment to serve humanity.

Additionally, the American Jewish Committee issued a statement of solidarity, emphasizing support for their Catholic counterparts during this challenging period, while Italian bishops organized rosary prayers across the country.

Potential Risks Ahead

Healthcare professionals have identified the risk of sepsis as a major concern, as it can complicate pneumonia treatment. So far, the latest reports from the Vatican have not indicated any signs of sepsis.

Over the weekend, Francis’s platelet count dropped to low levels, but remained stable by Sunday. Low platelet counts can arise from various factors, including the side effects of medications or infections.

During a blood transfusion on Saturday, Francis received hematin to boost his hemoglobin levels, which enhances blood’s oxygen transportation capacity. Reports indicate that this treatment has proven effective.

Having suffered from chronic lung disease and being susceptible to bronchitis during winter, Pope Francis was admitted to the Gemelli hospital on February 14 due to a severe exacerbation of bronchitis.

Initially diagnosed with a complex respiratory tract infection involving viral, bacterial, and fungal components, Francis later developed pneumonia in both lungs. His treatment protocol now includes “absolute rest,” cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen as necessary.

Foreseeing Future Challenges

Pope Francis has made several recent decisions reflecting his awareness of his advancing age and health issues. Last year, he amended the funeral rites to simplify the ceremony, allowing for burial outside Vatican grounds while maintaining essential traditional elements.

In December, he appointed 21 new cardinals, with nearly all being under 80 and eligible to vote for his successor in a conclave. This increased the overall number of voting cardinals to 140, surpassing the limit set by St. John Paul II, though several current electors will turn 80 this year.

Recently, Francis decided to extend the term of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re as dean of the College of Cardinals, choosing continuity over transition amidst a backdrop of health challenges. Additionally, he prolonged the vice-dean’s term, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, who is also 81.

___

Coverage of religion by the Associated Press is made possible in collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP takes full responsibility for its content.