Vatican

The Vatican said in a statement on Saturday, that Pope Francis would not lead Sunday prayers again this weekend, the second week in a row he has to cancel his personal appearance.

The 88-year-old pontiff, despite battling pneumonia and a severe bronchial infection, was alert and responsive, Meloni stated on Wednesday.

The ageing Catholic leader’s health has been a matter of public concern for some time.

The move marks a major step in Pope Francis’ aim to give women more leadership roles in the church, while standing firm on not allowing them to be ordained as priests.