On Sunday morning, another update from the Vatican said the Pope had had a "tranquil" night and confirmed he would not lead Sunday prayers for the second week running.
"I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick," added the message - written in the last few days according to Vatican sources.
On Saturday night, the Vatican said the Pope was in a critical condition after a "prolonged respiratory crisis" that required a high flow of oxygen.
The Pope remains in a critical condition and is now showing an "initial, mild" kidney insufficiency - but is "vigilant" and took part in Mass in hospital with those caring for him.
The beauty and pageantry of columns of deacons and visitors filing in for a special mass as part of the Catholic Church's jubilee year sat awkwardly with the prognosis of the Pope's ailing health.
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