Pope Francis, hospitalized in critical condition with double pneumonia, was well enough to meet with the Vatican secretary of state to approve new decrees for saints and call a formal meeting to set the dates for their canonization,

But as Pope Francis has battled double pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14, the Vatican has been trying something new. The Holy See press office has been giving daily updates on his condition.

Thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for an ailing Pope Francis, expressing sorrow for his suffering, hope for his recovery and gratitude for his efforts to steer the Catholic Ch