Pope Francis Remains In Critical Condition With ‘Mild’ Kidney Failure, Vatican Reports

Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he battles pneumonia in both lungs, with blood tests indicating mild kidney failure, the Vatican reported on Sunday.

The 88-year-old pontiff, hospitalized for over a week, has not experienced further respiratory crises since Saturday evening and continues to receive oxygen. Despite his condition, he participated in Holy Mass from his hospital apartment at Gemelli Hospital, joined by those caring for him.

The Vatican stated that his kidney issues are under control but emphasized the complexity of his condition, noting that his prognosis remains uncertain as he awaits further response to treatment.

Earlier, officials confirmed that Francis received high-flow oxygen following a respiratory crisis but had a peaceful night. Due to his illness, he did not deliver the weekly Angelus prayer—only the third time in his nearly 12-year papacy.

In his pre-released Sunday sermon, the Pope reassured that his treatment continues and expressed gratitude to the medical staff for their dedication.

Earlier in the week, the Pope’s condition appeared to be improving, with the Vatican stating on Thursday that he was responding “positively” to pneumonia treatment.

Francis was admitted to a Rome clinic on February 14, initially undergoing tests for a respiratory tract infection before a later CT scan confirmed pneumonia in both lungs.

Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a kidney specialist from Orlando Health Medical Group Urology, told CNN that the Vatican’s latest update on the Pope’s kidney health is not necessarily alarming.

“I don’t think it’s anything significant per se, but we can tell his condition is still quite critical,” Brahmbhatt said, explaining that while kidneys are delicate, they are also resilient.

He noted that infections in older adults can escalate quickly if the immune system overreacts, leading to sepsis. When pneumonia triggers sepsis, widespread inflammation can damage multiple organs, including the kidneys.

“In Pope Francis’ case, that’s showing up as mild renal failure. Kidney damage can be temporary and improve with treatment, or it can be permanent,” Brahmbhatt added.