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

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

Despite his hospitalization, the pope has maintained a degree of governance and authorized the appointment of four new bishops.

Time-honored rituals, drafted and refined over centuries, allow time for mourning and provide order at a dramatic moment of transition.

Blood tests have confirmed an improvement, according to the Vatican's update. The slight kidney insufficiency detected a few days ago has receded, and Francis is continuing to receive respiratory physiotherapy.

The eyes of the Catholic world are focused on Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where Pope Francis remains hospitalized for a number of health issues. Here's what to know about the Pope's health situation—and what experts think it says about the risks of respiratory infections in older people.