The Vatican reported a “slight improvement” in the Pope’s condition on Monday evening, though it continued to describe his situation as “critical”.

The wet black cobblestones shone from the bright lights illuminating the fountains and the front of the square where Pope Francis normally sits for his Wednesday general audiences. An image of Mater Ecclesiae – Mary, Mother of the Church – adorned with greenery and white and pink flowers took center stage.

The Vatican press office said Cardinal Parolin will lead a rosary for the pontiff in St. Peter's Square at 9 p.m. local time. The U.S. bishops urged Catholics to join that prayer at the same time, 3 p.m. on the East Coast.

Pope Francis remained in critical condition as the Vatican called senior church officials in Rome to a special saying of the rosary in St. Peter’s Square.

ROME and LONDON -- Pope Francis was "resting" on Monday morning after spending his 10th night in the hospital, the Vatican press office said. "The night passed well, the Pope slept and is resting," the office said in a short statement.

ROME (AP) — Pope Francis woke up and was continuing his therapies Monday after a quiet night, on the 10th day of his hospitalization for a complex lung infection that has provoked the early stages of kidney insufficiency, the Vatican said.

Reports of Pope Francis' critical health condition have put global media outlets including CNN, CBS and NBC, in high gear to descend upon Rome.

The Vatican has detailed laws and rituals to ensure the transfer of power when a pope dies or resigns, but not when he is sick

The Vatican announced Monday that cardinals will lead a nightly rosary in St. Peter’s Square for Pope Francis’ recovery, with the first prayer service Monday evening.

Vatican announces night prayers for Pope Francis' health as he battles lung infection, complications; Cardinal Parolin to lead.

Pope Francis spends “a peaceful night” at Rome‘s Gemelli Hospital and has breakfast while sitting in an armchair on Thursday morning, the Vatican tells journalists on Feb. 20.

Pope Francis remained in a critical condition on Monday but showed a slight improvement in laboratory tests and resumed some work, including calling a parish in Gaza City that he has kept in touch with since the war began,