Catholics of western Massachusetts are coming together in his honor. The prayer service at Saint Michael’s was held by the Diocese of Springfield

The statement also said the Holy Father “continues to be alert and well oriented” and is still receiving oxygen therapy “at high flows” through his nose.

The Rev. Michael Duffy, the rector at St. Agnes, the seat of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, addressed the pope’s condition during the 9:30 a.m. Mass. He began his sermon by asking the attendees to pray for the pontiff.