"Slight improvement" in Pope's condition despite its severity

Pope Francis remained in critical condition but showed slight improvement in laboratory tests and his mild kidney insufficiency is not a cause for concern. The Vatican announced daily evening prayers for the Holy Father's health in St. Peter's Square.

"No episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress occurred today, and some laboratory tests have shown improvement. The monitoring of his mild kidney insufficiency has not raised any concerns. Oxygen therapy continues, although with slightly reduced flow and oxygen levels," - Vatican provided the update on Pope Francis' health on Monday evening. 

The 88-year-old Francis battles pneumonia in both lungs at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.

The doctors are prudently maintaining their "cautious prognosis" with regard to the Holy Father's clinical condition due to its severity.

In the evening, Pope Francis called the parish priest of Gaza to express his paternal closeness. It has been reported that the Holy Family parish in Gaza had sent a video, and the Pope called to thank them.

Pope Francis thanks the entire People of God, who in these days have gathered to pray for his health, Vatican stated.

The Vatican No. 2, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, led the first prayer at Monday evening.

"Starting this evening, the Cardinals residing in Rome, along with all collaborators of the Roman Curia and the Diocese of Rome, responding to the sentiments of the people of God, will gather in St. Peter's Square at 9:00 PM to recite the Holy Rosary for the health of the Holy Father," - Vatican said in a statement. 

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