Vatican's Statement: Three Sentences

Vatican: Pope near death, but responds to aides
In written statement, Holy See says he remains conscious

The Associated Press
Updated: 12:33 p.m. ET April 2, 2005

VATICAN CITY - Pope John Paul II's condition remains "very serious," the Vatican said Saturday evening, saying the pope developed a high fever earlier in the day but was responding to members of his staff.

"The clinical conditions of the Holy Father remain very serious. In late morning, the high fever developed. When addressed by members of his household, he responds correctly," the Holy See said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, papal spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls said the pope was showing signs of losing consciousness, as priests around the world prepared the Roman Catholic faithful for his passing.

John Paul, 84, was not in a coma and opened his eyes when spoken to, Navarro-Valls said.

The pope’s health began deteriorating Thursday after he suffered a urinary tract infection. In its latest statement the Vatican, which earlier described his heart and kidneys as failing, said his condition was unchanged and “very grave.”