People in Rome and the Vatican are relying on their faith as they cope with the daily anxiety waiting to hear about the pope’s health.

For the latest news, view USA TODAY's story on the pope for Wednesday, Feb. 25. Pope Francis remained in "critical but stable" condition Tuesday, receiving the Holy Eucharist, working from his hospital room and receiving his daily therapy for bronchitis and pneumonia.

Pope Francis was a frequent visitor to Rome long before he became pope. Now his favorite shops and artisans are pulling for him as he battles double pneumonia.

Around the world, prayers and services are being held in support of the pontiff. In the Vatican, people gathered in St. Peter's Square. In Rome, flowers and tributes were left outside the Gemelli Polyclinic, where the Pope is being treated. The Archbishop of the City of Buenos Aires, Jorge Garcia Cuerva, led a mass for the health of the Pope.

ROME — Pope Francis remained in critical condition and resting Wednesday, as Argentines and Romans alike gathered in the Eternal City to pray for his recovery from double pneumonia. The Vatican’s short morning update said: “The pope had a peaceful night and is resting.”

The pontiff's condition is touch-and-go, given his age, fragility and pre-existing lung disease, according to doctors.