In Pope Francis’ native Argentina, his hospitalization with a respiratory infection alarmed many worshipers who rushed to churches to pray for the head of the Roman Catholic Church, although most expressed optimism that he would soon make a full recovery.

Earlier today, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis’ health is improving, noting that the 86-year-old pontiff prayed in a small hospital chapel.

At the basilica of San Jose de Flores, in the Buenos Aires neighborhood where the late Jorge Mario Bergoglio spent his childhood, the Rev. Martin Bourdieu said worshipers rushed to pray for the Roman Catholic patriarch. “We are praying for him… He is strong and I think he will overcome this,” he told Reuters.

In this district of the capital there are many who reminisce about Francis, who has not returned to Argentina since his ascension to the papal throne 10 years ago.

“He is very loved and has a lot of influence around the world, I want him to continue like that,” Oscar Cuatordio said as he left the Buenos Aires cathedral where he prayed for Pope Francis. Asked if he was worried about his health adventure, he answered in the negative before adding: “He has his years, of course, doesn’t he?”