Candles are left at the foot of a marble monument of late Pope John Paul II outside Rome's Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic where Pope Francis is being treated for pneumonia, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. Nuns pray for Pope Francis in front of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic,

Thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square on a chilly, rainy evening to pray for an ailing Pope Francis.

On Wednesday, the Vatican said Pope Francis “had a tranquil night, woke up and had breakfast,” saying he was in good spirits.

Pope Francis’ condition remains serious but has shown “slight improvement” as he continues treatment on his 11th day in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican said Monday evening. The 88-year-old Pontiff is still receiving oxygen therapy through his nose, though at a slightly reduced flow and concentration, according to the Holy See Press Office.

The pope was admitted to hospital on February 14 where he is fighting a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia in both lungs.

Pope Francis remains under treatment for a “polymicrobial” respiratory infection at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Nicknamed “Vatican III” by John Paul II, this medical complex has been welcoming ailing popes since the 20th century in what resembles a “small city.

Discover the story behind Rome's Gemelli hospital, often referred to as 'Vatican III' by Pope John Paul II. Learn why this hospital is the preferred choice for pontiffs, including Pope Francis, who is currently being treated for pneumonia.

Unlike most governments, the Catholic Church has no “No. 2” official designated to step in if a pope is unable to perform his duties.

The Vatican created a mini-residence on site, a top-floor apartment guarded by police. Read more at straitstimes.com.