Pope Francis Facing Critical Kidney Failure Yet Staying Alert as Global Prayers Surge

ROME, Italy — Pope Francis remains in a precarious state on Sunday as he battles pneumonia and a complex lung infection. Reports indicate his blood tests have shown signs of early kidney failure, but the 88-year-old pontiff is alert and responsive, even attending Mass amid his health struggles.

Recent updates from the Vatican confirm no additional respiratory crises have occurred since Saturday night, though he continues to receive significant supplemental oxygen. Medical teams have diagnosed “initial, mild kidney failure,” yet doctors assure that it is being managed effectively.

Doctors express caution regarding his prognosis, emphasizing the intricacy of his clinical situation. “The complexity of the clinical picture, and the necessary wait for drug therapies to provide some feedback, dictate that the prognosis remains guarded,” they noted.

Support and prayers for Pope Francis are pouring in globally. From Argentina to Cairo, individuals and communities are expressing hopes for his recovery. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, speaking during a homily at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, described the shared concern among the faithful, remarking on the gravity of the pope’s condition.

“As our Holy Father Pope Francis is in very, very fragile health, and probably close to death,” Dolan reflected, though he remained hopeful that Francis could recover.

Francis was scheduled to lead Mass and ordain deacons at St. Peter’s Basilica, but in his absence, Archbishop Rino Fisichella took over the ceremony, offering a special prayer for the pope. He stressed that even in the hospital, the pope remains close in spirit to the congregation.

In a message meant for Sunday, Francis acknowledged his hospitalization and requested continued prayers while expressing concerns about the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In Argentina, the faithful gathered at the Buenos Aires cathedral, lighting up the iconic obelisk with a message of support. Meanwhile, religious leaders worldwide, including the grand imam of Al-Azhar in Cairo, have issued prayers for Francis’ swift recovery.

As his health teeters, the risk of sepsis looms large, a common complication linked to pneumonia. Thus far, there have been no indications of sepsis in the updates released by the Vatican. Recent complications included a drop in his platelet count and anemia, for which he received beneficial treatments during blood transfusions.

Notably, Francis, who has a history of chronic lung issues, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after pneumonia symptoms intensified following bronchitis. His medical team has since prescribed a regimen of cortisone, antibiotics, and enforced bed rest to aid recovery.

In light of his condition, recent decisions by Francis reflect an awareness of his mortality. Changes made to funeral rites last year simplify rituals to underscore his role as bishop while allowing for burial outside the Vatican, aligning with his wishes. Furthermore, he has recently elevated new cardinals, ensuring a younger, more viable electors’ pool for his successor.

In these challenging times, the global community stands united in prayer and hope for the pope’s recovery and continued leadership.