Argentines pray for Pope Francis' health at Buenos Aires cathedral Mass

Faithful in the poor neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, where Pope Francis conducted mass before becoming the pontiff, started a series of masses praying for his recovery.

Catholic leaders called upon the faithful to pray for Pope Francis in Italy and his native Argentina on Wednesday, after the 88-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with pneumonia the previous day.

In Latin America, Francis remains well-liked, though favorability has dropped, particularly in Argentina, where it fell from 98% in 2013 to 74% in 2024. Despite declines, he continues to be viewed as a transformative figure.

Pope Francis remained at the Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday night in Rome still requiring supplemental oxygen. At 88, Francis has lived for decades with only part of his lungs after a respiratory infection prompted surgery in Argentina.

Valentina Fernandez poses for a picture holding an image of Pope Francis after a Mass to pray for his health at Constitution Square in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Monday, Feb. 24,

For the latest news, view USA TODAY's story on the pope for Wednesday, Feb. 25. Pope Francis remained in "critical but stable" condition Tuesday, receiving the Holy Eucharist, working from his hospital room and receiving his daily therapy for bronchitis and pneumonia.

Our community is living these days of apprehension in prayer,” said Father Fernando Laguna. “It’s the only way we can be close to the pope. It’s our way of sending him a big kiss and hug.”

Francis was hospitalized Feb. 14 after struggling to speak and breathe during public appearances for more than a week.

Hundreds of Argentines attended a special mass Monday for their countryman Pope Francis, hospitalized in a critical condition with pneumonia in Rome. They gathered on the same square in Buenos Aires where as archbishop,

Concerns over Pope Francis' health have mounted in recent years as have questions about his succession. Here's what we know.