Benedict XVI now "stable, participates in celebration of Holy Mass

There have been concerns for the deteriorating health of the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who is the first pontiff to retire in 600 years.

who is the first pontiff to retire in 600 years.

Earlier this week the Vatican said the 95-year-old’s condition had suddenly “worsened due to age”.

Amid concern for his health, Pope Francis’ said the ex-Pontiffs was “very sick” as he asked people to pray so God would comfort him “to the very end”.

But on Friday, Pope Benedict is said be a very “stable” and was able to “rest well”.

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The former head of the Catholic Church, was also able to participate in Mass in his room, the Vatican says.

A Vatican spokesperson said: “Last night the Pope Emeritus was able to rest well. He also participated in the celebration of Holy Mass in his room yesterday afternoon.

“At present his condition is stable”.

Upon his retirement he took on the title of Pope Emeritus and chose to live out his retirement in seclusion in a converted monastery in the Vatican.