"Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!" In a late update on Sunday, the Vatican said Francis remains in critical condition and blood tests show early kidney failure but he remains alert and "well-oriented.

Catholics in Buenos Aires attended Mass on Sunday to pray for Pope Francis' recovery. (Video by Cristian Kovadloff)

The eyes of the Catholic world are focused on Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where Pope Francis remains hospitalized for a number of health issues. Here's what to know about the Pope's health situation—and what experts think it says about the risks of respiratory infections in older people.

Pope Francis was on the minds of everyone who came to mass at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in North Hollywood Sunday morning, including Cardinal Roger Mahony.

Archbishop of New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan said that the closing of Catholic schools in New York City amid a faith and funding crisis in the US brings him to tears.

Pope get better soon!” and “Pope are you also afraid of syringes?” were among the tender sentences written under colourful drawings sent by children from all over the world to Pope Francis.

The Vatican says Pope Francis remains in critical condition but has showed slight improvement in laboratory tests.

Pope Francis has received get-well notes featuring heartwarming drawings from children in the hospital where he is staying.

Michael Duffy, the rector at St. Agnes, the seat of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, addressed the pope’s condition during the 9:30 a.m. Mass. He began his sermon by asking the attendees to pray for the pontiff.

A statement from The Vatican said that Pope Francis is still in critical condition though he showed slight improvement. NBC News’ Claudio Lavanga and Dr. John Torres report on the assessment of health and reaction from those praying for the pope.