Vatican

For those who recognize Christ as the savior, death is not an end or a form of “annihilation,” Pope Francis wrote in his general audience catechesis. It is a kind of “sister” that introduces the faithful departed to true life.

Even after Pope Francis’ doctors said he was showing slight signs of improvement and the Vatican reported that he had met in the hospital with top aides to do some work, questions persisted about the possibility of his resignation.

In a sign affirming that Pope Francis has been able to conduct work while in the hospital, the Vatican said the pope had met with the top officials of the Vatican Secretariat of State and had signed several decrees in sainthood causes.

The morning after Pope Francis’ doctors said that he remained in “critical” condition and showed initial signs of renal insufficiency, the Vatican press office said the pope was in “good spirits” and continuing his treatment.

While Italy’s main news agency reported that Pope Francis’ respiratory “crisis” had subsided, a Vatican source said he was still receiving supplemental oxygen by nasal cannula early Feb. 23.