ITV Good Morning Britain goes live to Vatican for urgent two-word Pope update
Good Morning Britain has delivered a crucial update from the Vatican, with news on Pope Francis' health.
Nitya Rajan reported directly from Vatican City, speaking to presenters Adil Ray and Kate Garraway as well as Charlotte Hawkins, who was in the studio to share the rest of the day's news on Friday (February 28).
The Pope, 88, is still undergoing treatment for pneumonia following his hospitalisation on February 14.
Nitya began: "I think the only way of describing what I've seen here, not only last night, but over the last few days and across the entire week, is the deep faith and reverence and steadfastness that has united so many that have gathered here across the square to pray for Pope Francis.
"Last night, we saw people walking with purpose under a very clear, starry night, all united in the belief that when you ask, you shall receive."
However, the correspondent explained that people are still "deeply worried" and "still emotional" about the updates they have been receiving on zthe Pope's health.
Nitya headed to Gemelli Hospital on Thursday afternoon, recalling how people were gathered near a shrine for the Pope, which is situated beneath a statue of John Paul II in front of the hospital in Rome.
Speaking to those outside the hospital, Nitya revealed that pilgrims expressed how they will not be satisfied until their pontiff is back in office.
She added: "The Pope continues to receive oxygen therapy but the Vatican have said they are awaiting further days of clinical stability to fully diagnose a prognosis."
Pope Francis was initially admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days.
Although initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs.
On Sunday, he asked Catholics worldwide to pray for him, saying in a message: "I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!"
The Pope has a history of respiratory illness, losing part of a lung when he was younger after contracting pleurisy - inflammation of the tissue that lines the chest cavity and surrounds the lungs.
He also spent 10 days in hospital in 2021 after having 33cm of his colon removed, but this current illness marks his longest stay in hospital since becoming the Pope in 2013.
