Francis remains in critical condition but has not suffered any additional crises, the Vatican said Sunday evening, after reporting Saturday the pope suffered a “long asthmatic respiratory crisis” days after he was hospitalized for pneumonia.

“Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he continues to receive in these hours,” the Vatican statement said. The pope expressed particular gratitude for the well wishes he received from his fellow patients in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and asked for continued prayers.