Reports from South Africa say Nelson Mandela is doing better.

The former president spent a second day in the hospital. Government officials say Mandela is in good spirits and making steady progress in the hospital.

He is being treated for a recurring lung infection.

Mandela is now 94 years old. Concern about his health is growing.

In just the last four months, he has been hospitalized three times.

South Africa's president has asked for prayers for the revered anti-apartheid figure. He acknowledges that frailty comes with age and said he is very concerned about Mandela's condition.

He is also hopeful he'll recover and be able to go home once again.