Former Pope Benedict XVI is “stable” and was able to “rest well” last night, the Vatican said.
The update comes amid concerns for the health of Pope Francis’ predecessor, who, according to the pontiff, was “very ill” as he asked people to pray so that God consoles him “until the end”.
The former head of the Catholic Church, who became the first to retire in 600 years, was able to attend Mass in his room, according to the Vatican.
A Vatican spokesperson said: “Last night the Pope Emeritus was able to rest well. He also participated in the celebration of Holy Mass in his room yesterday afternoon.
“His condition is currently stable.”
Upon retirement, he assumed the title of pope emeritus and chose to live out his retirement in seclusion in a converted monastery in the Vatican.
Earlier this week, the Vatican said the 95-year-old’s condition had suddenly “worsened due to age”.
