A sea of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square on a rainy night to pray for Pope Francis, as the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia in both lungs. Despite a slight improvement, his condition remains critical after 11 days in the hospital.
The Vatican offered a more hopeful health update, stating that Francis had "slept well, all night", and his oxygen support had been slightly reduced.
However, according to an AP report, the mood in the square remained solemn, with many understanding they may be witnessing the final days of the pope who has shaped the Catholic Church in profound ways.
A Prayerful Vigil in St. Peter’s Square
More than 4,000 people, including priests, seminarians, tourists, and devoted Catholics from around the world, stood in silence under umbrellas or knelt in prayer, fingering their rosary beads as Cardinal Pietro Parolin led a 45-minute prayer service.
“To see him suffer hurts,” said Robert Pietro, a Romanian seminarian holding a small candle in tribute.
Father Roberto Allison, a priest from Guadalajara, Mexico, said his community came to honor Francis’ teachings, particularly his emphasis on peace and compassion.
Despite the somber atmosphere, Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco found hope in the diversity of the crowd, calling it "a big sign of comfort" for the Catholic Church.
A Pope Who Touched Lives Worldwide
Francis, the first Latin American pope, has been known for his progressive stance on social issues, including his advocacy for migrants, environmental protection, and a more inclusive Church.
“We came to pray for the pope, that he may recover soon, for the great mission he’s sharing with his message of peace,” said Hatzumi Villanueva of Peru.
Catholics from all over the world weren’t the only ones offering prayers.
A couple from London, who are not Catholic, felt moved by being in the basilica where the pope resides, while Raniero Mancinelli, a Vatican tailor who has dressed three popes, expressed his sorrow over Francis' illness.
A Historic Moment for the Church
The pope’s condition is being watched closely, especially given his preexisting lung disease—he had part of a lung removed as a young man. While doctors are optimistic about his recent stability, they acknowledge that his health remains fragile and unpredictable.
For many in the square, it felt like history unfolding.
“No one knows the day and time, but it’s a historic moment nonetheless,” said Edward Burjek, a Catholic visitor from Chicago.
Despite the pouring rain, a group of 34 pilgrims from northern Italy, led by Elisabetta Zumbo, carried a five-foot-long cross as a sign of their unwavering support.
“There is a lot of emotion and a lot of sadness,” Zumbo said, promising that their prayers for Francis would be “intense and unceasing”.
