Amid fears for the health of Pope Emeritus Bendict, the Vatican has released a statement saying the the Pontiff is alert and resting.
“The Pope Emeritus was able to rest well last night. He is absolutely lucid and alert. Today, although his condition remains serious, the situation remains stable at the moment. Pope Francis renews his invitation to pray for [Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI] and accompany him in these difficult hours,” according to Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, on Thursday.