On Tuesday night, the faithful from Francis’ homeland gathered in the Argentine church of Rome for a special Mass presided over by Cardinal Baldassarre Reina, the pope’s vicar for Rome. Reina was also celebrating the lunchtime Mass on Wednesday at Gemelli to pray for Francis.

Catholics in Rome gathered to pray outside the hospital where Pope Francis is being treated and remains in a' critical' condition.Joaqu ín Mbana Nchama walks with reverence toward the white marble statue of former Pope John Paul II,

Pope Francis remained in critical condition and resting Wednesday, as Argentines and Romans alike gathered in the Eternal City to pray for his recovery from double pneumonia. The Vatican’s short morning update said: “The pope had a peaceful night and is resting.

Pope Francis was a frequent visitor to Rome long before he became pope, and over time found his favorite shops and artisans who are now pulling for him as he battles double pneumonia . “The pope is by now a friend,

People in Rome and the Vatican are relying on their faith as they cope with the daily anxiety waiting to hear about the pope’s health.

Pope Francis is resting well as he battles double pneumonia, the Vatican said on Wednesday, with an official adding that he is continuing to eat normally and is able to move around his hospital room.