Francis has been in the hospital now for more than a week with double pneumonia. The 88-year-old has long dealt with breathing problems. He had part of one lung removed decades ago.

ROME — Pope Francis remained in critical condition Sunday and blood tests showed early kidney failure but he remains alert, responsive and attended Mass, the Vatican said, as the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia and a complex lung infection.

Pope Francisis "slightly improving" and his blood analyses are stable, the Vatican said on Thursday, in the latest sign of progress as the 88-year-old pontiff battles double pneumonia.