The Vatican said Friday that Pope Francis is on a breathing machine after suffering a sudden respiratory episode during his hospitalization. "The Holy Father, this afternoon, after a morning spent alternating between respiratory physiotherapy and prayer in the chapel,

The Vatican said the pope responded well to the treatment, with a good level of gas exchange, and remained conscious and alert at all times.

Pope Francis, 88, was placed on a non-invasive mechanical ventilator after a bronchospasm caused him to inhale vomit. His condition is “guarded.”