From the Hospital, Pope Makes Key Decisions

Pope Francis, hospitalized with double pneumonia, continues to perform essential duties from his hospital room. He approved decrees for two new saints and five beatifications, illustrating the continuity of Vatican operations. Despite doctors warning about the severity of the 88-year-old's condition, he met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra for significant decisions, including convening a consistory for future canonizations.

The pope's condition has seen slight improvements, with no respiratory crises since Saturday, although he remains in critical health. His biographer, Austen Ivereigh, mentioned the possibility of resignation should he become incapable of performing duties, reflecting on previous statements made by Francis. "The pope has always said that the papacy is for life," says Ivereigh.

Giovanna Cirri, who covered such decisions in the past, doubted Francis would resign, highlighting his importance to the Church. Cirri said: "As long as he's alive, the world and the church need him." Sister Raffaella Petrini recently assumed a leadership role in Vatican City, empowered by Francis. The Vatican mentioned ongoing work, including appointments of bishops and an archbishop. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)