Ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See gathered in the Pauline Chapel at the Apostolic Palace to attend a mass held to pray for Pope Francis. The mass was led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, who thanked the attendees for their initiative to pray together. In his sermon, he stated, "This morning, we gather in prayer for the health of the Holy Father, wishing for his recovery and swift return among us.

Cardinal Parolin emphasized that prayer is the key to opening the heart of God, as it opens our own hearts to listen to His word. He also remarked that wars do not begin on battlefields but in the hearts of individuals, rooted in hatred and hostility. Despite diplomacy's efforts to prevent wars, he noted that achieving peace requires removing hostility from our language and seeking God's will in our relationships with others. Cardinal Parolin invoked Pope Francis' reminder for Christians to use three essential words in their daily interactions: "Please, Sorry, and Thank You.

Regarding Pope Francis' health, the Vatican Press Office reported today that the Pope had a peaceful night and is participating in the final day of the annual spiritual exercises of the Roman Curia via video in the Paul VI Hall. The Holy Father is continuing prescribed treatments, including physical therapy.

On Thursday evening, Pope Francis celebrated the 12th anniversary of his election as Supreme Pontiff in the presence of the medical staff overseeing his care. The Pope continues to rely on non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night and high-flow oxygen through a nasal cannula during the day.

The Vatican Press Office is expected to release a new medical update on Pope Francis' health later this evening.