"Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!" In a late update on Sunday, the Vatican said Francis remains in critical condition and blood tests show early kidney failure but he remains alert and "well-oriented.

Archbishop of New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan said that the closing of Catholic schools in New York City amid a faith and funding crisis in the US brings him to tears.

Pope Francis was on the minds of everyone who came to mass at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Hollywood Sunday morning, including Cardinal Roger Mahony.

Pope get better soon!” and “Pope are you also afraid of syringes?” were among the tender sentences written under colourful drawings sent by children from all over the world to Pope Francis.

Pope Francis has received get-well notes featuring heartwarming drawings from children in the hospital where he is staying.

Michael Duffy, the rector at St. Agnes, the seat of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, addressed the pope’s condition during the 9:30 a.m. Mass. He began his sermon by asking the attendees to pray for the pontiff.

Global media outlets, including CNN, CBS and NBC, are getting ready to descend upon Rome and Vatican City following reports that Pope Francis is in critical condition. Logistical aspects such as renting terrace space to get the best camera angles of St.