A first-person written message from Pope Francis was shared Sunday as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church continues his hospitalization in Rome.  

“I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” Pope Francis posted on X Sunday. “Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!” 

“I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the #GospelOfTheDay suggests,” another post said. “May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to take risks for love!” 

The language was similar to part of Pope Francis’ longer homily, which Archbishop Rino Fisichella read on his behalf while celebrating the Holy Mass for the Jubilee of Deacons on Sunday. 

“In recent days, I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” the pope added. “Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me.” 

The Vatican said Pope Francis was conscious but still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen on Sunday, following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions. He remains in critical condition with a complex lung infection. 

The Holy See Press Office’s brief statement early Sunday did not mention if Pope Francis was out of bed or eating breakfast, which it had on previous days. 

Deacons take part in a mass for their jubilee in St. Peter’s Basilica at The Vatican, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, that was supposed to be presided over by Pope Francis who was admitted over a week ago to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic.  (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

“The night passed quietly, the pope rested,” it said.

The Vatican later said Francis was conscious, continuing to receive supplemental oxygen and that further clinical tests were being conducted. A more detailed medical update was said to be later Sunday.

The 88-year-old pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Feb. 14 due to a worsening case of bronchitis.

On Saturday, doctors said Pope Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, was in critical condition after suffering a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis while being treated for pneumonia and a complex lung infection.

The Saturday statement also said that the pontiff “continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair although in more discomfort than yesterday.” Doctors said the prognosis was “reserved,” and that the pope’s condition is touch-and-go, given his age, fragility and pre-existing lung disease. His condition has revived speculation about what might happen if he becomes unconscious or otherwise incapacitated, and whether he might resign.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.