The pope "rested well" and woke shortly after 8 a.m. this morning, his 20th day in hospital, as his condition remains stable and his prognosis remains reserved.

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Pope Francis’ condition remained stable on Wednesday (March 5), according to a Vatican statement relaying his doctors’ reports. As Francis is being treated for pneumonia in both lungs at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, the Vatican prepares to celebrate Lenten events without the pontiff.

In South Florida, Catholics attended mass at churches in greater numbers to commemorate Ash Wednesday, which marks the first day of Lent, a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and charity before Easter on April 20.