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

“Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he continues to receive in these hours,” the Vatican statement said. The pope expressed particular gratitude for the well wishes he received from his fellow patients in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and asked for continued prayers.