Catholics have been gathering for the third consecutive night at the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, sharing prayers for the Pope’s health, following reports of slight improvements in his condition from his medical team.

Participants included nuns with rosary beads, tourists, and seminarian attending the solemn recitation of the rosary within the Vatican.

A cardinal in a red skullcap led the prayers, requesting that Pope Francis be granted the strength to return to his responsibilities soon.

These nightly vigils began on Monday after the 88-year-old Pope’s health took a worrying turn over the weekend, requiring blood transfusions as he struggled to breathe.

Fortunately, recent updates indicate that the Pope is now able to sit up, has a normal appetite, and is engaged in what the Vatican refers to as “light work,” such as reviewing and signing documents.

“It was a bit frightening last weekend but things seem better now,” shared Stacey, a medical student from Paris, who has attended the prayers twice.

Stacey added, “Pope Francis resonates strongly with young people as he embodies openness, offering hope in what can be a daunting world.”

Xiomara from Panama shared her connection to Pope Francis, stating that he is “a genuinely good man.”

“Prayers are powerful; they truly make a difference,” she affirmed.

Cardinal Battista Re, who led the rosary from underneath a white canopy, is the Vatican official responsible for convening a conclave, should Pope Francis become unable to fulfill his papal duties.

While there are signs of improvement, the Pope’s medical staff have not yet provided a prognosis.

Admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 for double pneumonia, a recent CT scan indicated a “normal evolution” in his recovery, suggesting he is responding positively to treatment.

He continues to need supplemental oxygen but has not experienced any further “respiratory crises.”

The demeanor of Vatican officials has slightly relaxed, with Tuesday’s updates describing the Pope’s condition as “stable,” a first in some time. By Wednesday evening, the situation was labeled as showing “further slight improvement,” marking the first omission of the word “critical” in official communications.

However, officials emphasize that this does not indicate he is completely out of danger.

Given the limited information available, observers are scrutinizing every detail for deeper implications.

The uncertainty about the Pope’s future looms large, particularly as his frailty predates this illness, leading many to speculate about the possibility of resignation.

The Quotidiano Nazionale newspaper referred to it as the “fluttering of crows” around St. Peter’s, a phenomenon often associated with the “sunset” of a papacy.

This concern is amplified since Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013 set a historical precedent, being the first Pope to step down in over six centuries.

Pope Francis has previously stated that he would contemplate resignation if his health prevents him from fulfilling his role.

“His instinct will be to persevere as long as he is able,” says Austen Ivereigh, a co-author of a book with Pope Francis.

“He has illustrated that he can be a frail Pope; whether in a wheelchair or faced with health challenges, that’s acceptable.”

Nonetheless, should his health prognosis turn dire, the topic of resignation may need to be broached.

Despite Pope Francis’ hospitalization, the Vatican’s operations continue smoothly. The administrative functions persist, with the Pope still signing certain documents.

On Monday, high-ranking officials visited him for discussions, resulting in his endorsement of progress concerning candidates for sainthood.

Questions arise as to why these actions couldn’t be postponed, given the Pope’s fragile condition, leading to speculation about the nature of discussions held during that meeting.

As Pope Francis marks his 14th day in the hospital, pilgrims visiting Rome are already feeling the absence of their leader, with his weekly audience canceled for the second consecutive week.

“We hope for his swift recovery, allowing him to continue the impactful initiatives he has begun,” Mabi expressed, particularly emphasizing the involvement of women in the church.

“He is a Pope who connects with the people, and there is a strong desire for his work to go on.”

“We are disappointed we couldn’t meet the Pope today as we had tickets booked,” noted Fr. Cristiano, surrounded by nearly 100 faithful from northern Italy processing towards St. Peter’s behind a large wooden crucifix.

“While I am not disheartened, my concern for him remains. Although today’s news is not overwhelmingly alarming, it’s not entirely reassuring either. We must continue to pray,” he added.