The expatriate community is small but shares a special bond with Francis, who has been in the hospital since Feb. 14.

Pope Francis is continuing his slow recovery from double pneumonia and beating back speculation of an imminent death, resignation or conclave

The latest statement suggests that the 88-year-old is able to sit in his chair, eat normally and do what the Vatican calls "light work".

Academy Awards hopeful "Conclave" reveals system behind selecting a new pontiff, as Pope Francis remains hospitalized, battling pneumonia. (Feb. 27)

Pope Francis was a frequent visitor to Rome long before he became pope, and over time found his favorite shops and artisans who are now pulling for him as he battles double pneumonia. “The pope is by now a friend,

Time-honored rituals, drafted and refined over centuries, allow time for mourning and provide order at a dramatic moment of transition.

Pope Francis continued his slow recovery from double pneumonia on Thursday, beating back speculation of an imminent death, resignation or conclave and signaling that he was still very much in charge,

Pope Francis, 88, is fully aware of his health limitations but is "passionate" about serving until his death, one expert says.

After almost two weeks in hospital, Pope Francis appears to be on a slow road to recovery, according to the Vatican. "The pope slept well during the night" and is now resting, the Holy See said on Thursday morning.

Pope Francis continued his slow recovery from double pneumonia on Thursday, beating back speculation of an imminent death, resignation or conclave and signalling that he was still very much in

People gathering to pray at St. Peter’s Square were moved by an audio "thank you" message from the pope, who is in the hospital.