Pope Francis, 88, is in critical condition due to double pneumonia and a severe lung infection. While receiving high oxygen flows and blood transfusions, doctors fear the onset of sepsis, which could further complicate his condition given his advanced age and respiratory issues.

The Vatican described his condition as critical for the first time on Saturday, reporting that the 88-year-old Francis needed supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions after a "prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis.

ROME — Pope Francis remained in critical condition Sunday and blood tests show early kidney failure but he remains alert and “well-oriented,” and attended Mass, the Vatican said, as the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia and a complex lung infection.

Pope Francis was in critical condition Saturday after he suffered a long asthmatic respiratory crisis that required high flows of oxygen, the Vatican said.

The Vatican carried on with its Holy Year celebrations without the pope Saturday, as Pope Francis battled pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection that doctors

ROME — Pope Francis, in critical condition with a complex lung infection, rested well during a peaceful night following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions, the Vatican said Sunday.

The Vatican said Pope Francis remained in critical condition Sunday with blood tests showing early kidney failure.

Francis, 88, is in critical condition at a Rome hospital with a complex lung infection. The Vatican said he was "alert and spent the day in an armchair" on Saturday.

Catholics around the world including at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Carmichael are praying for Pope Francis as he remains in the hospital.