Overview

• Pope Francis has been hospitalized since February 14 with pneumonia and is also showing early signs of kidney failure, with his condition described as 'critical' but showing slight improvement.
• Faithful Catholics and global religious figures, including interfaith leaders, have been offering prayers and holding vigils for the pope's recovery, reflecting his broad influence beyond the Church.
• The Vatican has been providing twice-daily health updates, with the pope continuing limited work activities from his hospital suite, including meetings and phone calls.
• Speculation about a potential papal resignation has grown, as Pope Francis previously prepared a letter in 2013 for such a scenario if incapacitated, though no plans have been announced.
• Far-right Catholic traditionalists have used the pope's illness to amplify criticism of his progressive leadership, spreading conspiracy theories and questioning his legacy.