Pope’s prognosis still guarded as rumours of imminent death, conclave swirl - The Vatican’s latest update shows positive signs in some areas, but not in others

Pope Francis is continuing his slow recovery from double pneumonia and beating back speculation of an imminent death, resignation or conclave.

The Vatican said the 88-year-old pope once again slept well during the night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital and was resting Thursday morning.

The changes Francis brought to the papacy were more than skin deep. He opened the church to the outside world in ways none of his predecessors had done before.

People of the Catholic faith around the world are lighting candles and praying for the health of Pope Francis while he recovers from pneumonia.

The Vatican has laws to ensure the transfer of power when a pope dies or resigns, but they don't apply if he is sick.

The Vatican has set in motion nightly prayers for Pope Francis in the hope that he might recover and get back to leading the Catholic Church.

Children being treated at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital crafted numerous “get well” cards and drawings for Pope Francis as he received treatment at the hospital.

Pope Francis, being treated in hospital for double pneumonia, slept well overnight and is resting, the Vatican said in a brief statement on Thursday. (Editing by Crispian Balmer) Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.