While the Vatican has detailed laws and rituals to ensure the transfer of power when a pope dies or resigns, they do not apply if he is sick or even unconscious.

Catholics from across the world are praying for Pope Francis amid his health battle.

The pontiff "continues to be alert and well oriented" and has not had any further respiratory crises, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis met with the Vatican's secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on Monday as he rested comfortably throughout the night into Tuesday, but he remained in critical condition.

JD Vance was mocked Thursday for offering “cringe” advice to young men he says mainstream U.S. culture now opposes: Crack a beer, tell jokes, and embrace your masculinity. The

The Vatican reported another slight improvement in Pope Francis's condition on Thursday, as the 88-year-old spent his seventh day in hospital being treated for double pneumonia.

Prayers are pouring in from parishioners all across San Diego after Pope Francis was listed in critical condition.

Loredana Sarmati warned that pneumonia is a "major serious illness...even in young people". She added that "It is unlikely that this situation will be resolved within days for the pope, I think it will take weeks.

Pope Francis's condition "remains critical", the Vatican said Sunday on his 10th day in hospital as Catholics around the world prayed for the 88-year-old's recovery.

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