Former Vice President Mike Pence received criticism on Sunday after referring to Pope Francis as "the Holy Father."

In a post on X, Pence wrote that he is praying for the pope, who has been hospitalized since last month, battling a number of health issues.

"One of my greatest honors as Vice President was the hour I spent with Pope Francis at the Vatican in January 2020. @KarenPence and I join Catholics around the world, praying for this humble and godly man. God Bless the Holy Father," Pence wrote.

The response to this post, which has amassed nearly half a million views, was largely critical towards the former vice president since he called the pope "the Holy Father."

"I have heard from people in my theological circles that you were truly a Christian. You even attended a church pastored by a friend of mine. To see you affirm Roman Catholicism and say the man who thinks he is Head of the Church and the Vicar (substitute) of Christ on earth is sad.

And there is only One Holy Father - the Ancient of Days," commented evangelist and Bible teacher Justin Peters.

Spencer Smith, a preacher, author, and YouTuber, commented, "There it is…"

Jon Root Faith, Sports & Culture Commentator, posted a gif of the late theologian R.C. Sproul saying, "What's wrong with you people?"

Francis has been in the hospital since February 14 after dealing with complex respiratory infections, including double pneumonia and bronchitis.

According to a Monday statement by the Holy Press See Press Office, the pope "slept well throughout the night" while he remains hospitalized in Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

They added that Francis did not require "non-invasive mechanical ventilation," as he had used it recently, but he was still receiving supplemental, high-flow oxygenation.

He also participated in Mass on Sunday "with those who have been caring for him during his hospitalization" and spent the rest of the day "alternating between rest and prayer."

"No direct consequences from the bronchospasm the Pope experienced on Friday are evident; however, there is still a possibility the Holy Father's condition could deteriorate," the statement added.

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