Pope Francis, despite battling critical double pneumonia, continues to lead church affairs from Rome's Gemelli hospital. He remains active in discussions and decision-making, with slight health improvements reported.

Officials said Pope Francis is in critical condition as he battles pneumonia and early kidney failure. He was awake and eating normally during his treatments. Crowds have been gathering at Vatican City to pray for his recovery. Doctors reported Sunday that blood tests showed his early kidney failure was under control.

The kidney ailment appears to be in an early stage, the Vatican said, adding that the pontiff is still receiving high flows of oxygen for his respiratory illness.

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The Vatican No. 2 led faithful in a somber night-time prayer on Monday as Pope Francis continued to battle pneumonia in both lungs at a hospital in Rome.