Pope Francis remains on daily oxygen therapy during his third week in the hospital, with his prognosis still "guarded," the Holy See Press Office said in a Saturday update. Francis has been critically ill with double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis after being admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14.

Made of ashes and earth, we experience fragility through illness, poverty, and the hardships that can suddenly befall us and our families,” the pope said.

Christians across the world observe a 40-day period called Lent. It represents the 40 days in the Bible that Jesus had spent fasting and praying in the desert. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, and this year,

Catholic women frustrated over being disenfranchised by the church despite promises of greater recognition are going on strike, withholding numerous services and ministries to their Catholic parishes,

Pope Francis was in stable condition Tuesday and breathing with just the help of supplemental oxygen after respiratory crises a day earlier, but will resume

ROME—Pope Francis said the Lenten journey reminds the Church that hope in Jesus Christ ultimately overcomes fears of fragility, weakness, and the brevity of life. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, reading the papal text,