the many people who are.. close to the sick," he said, describing them as "bringing a little light into the night of pain".

The pontiff has been battling pneumonia and bronchitis for more than three weeks in hospital, but has shown a slight improvement in recent days says the Vatican. The Vatican said on Saturday the Pope had shown a "good response" to his treatment at Rome's Gemelli hospital. "The clinical condition of the Holy Father in recent days has remained stable and, consequently, indicates a good response to the treatment," the Vatican said. "There is therefore a gradual, slight improvement", it added.For the fourth consecutive Sunday, the Argentine Pontiff was not present for his weekly blessing, but the Vatican shared the text he had prepared.