ROME and LONDON -- Pope Francis is "resting" on Monday morning after spending his 10th night in the hospital, the Vatican press office said. "The night passed well, the Pope slept and is resting," the office said in a short statement.

Pope Francis, in critical condition battling double pneumonia, had a "good" night in hospital, slept and is resting, the Vatican said on Monday.

“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.