The election of a new pope is a complex process involving hundreds of cardinals that can stretch up to weeks on end. But the general public seems to have found its own way to show support for their pontiffs of choice.

Pope Francis thanks well-wishers and prays ‘above all for peace’ amid pneumonia battle - Pope Francis, 88, is said to be in a stable condition amid battle with double pneumonia

Pope Francis has come down with a serious illness that could potentially force him to resign, but who would succeed him?

As Pope Francis has battled double pneumonia in hospital for nearly three weeks, talk of the 88-year-old pontiff's death or resignation has become almost commonplace. Some newspapers have published articles informing their readers about what to expect during the papal funeral.

Pope Francis suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure Monday, the Vatican said, a fresh setback in the worst health crisis of his papacy.

The Vatican on Tuesday called the health condition of Pope Francis "guarded" and "complex" as he remained in a stable condition with double pneumonia, according to officials.

Pope Francis has remained stable after suffering two episodes of respiratory failure on Monday. In its nightly update, the Vatican said the Pope did not present any further episodes of respiratory failure or bronchospasm.

Pope Francis is in stable condition after his episodes of acute respiratory failure on Monday, the Vatican said Tuesday.