Pope Leo Leads Prayer Service Amidst Recovery from Lung Cancer Surgery
The pontiff appeared publicly for the first time since his procedure, thanking worshippers and vowing to gradually resume duties.
Pope Leo was seen by thousands of worshippers in St. Peter's Square on Sunday, leading a prayer service shortly after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The appearance marked his first public address since being released from the hospital.
The 71-year-old leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics, who appeared at the window of his Apostolic Palace to enthusiastic cheers of "Viva il papa! (Hooray for the Pope!)", thanked well-wishers and indicated he would resume his work gradually. He had been released from the hospital on Saturday, just four days after a 90-minute procedure to remove a cancerous mass from his lung.
The diagnosis was adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer, and a portion of his right lung was removed. Doctors are currently awaiting results from histological testing of the tumor and related lymph nodes. These results, along with an analysis of the tumor's molecular and genetic makeup, will inform decisions about potential additional treatments, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted oral therapy.
Speaking in a firm voice, Pope Leo expressed his gratitude for prayers from around the world and acknowledged the support he felt during his recovery. He extended particular thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Gemelli hospital, where he received treatment. "Having overcome this delicate phase... I will now gradually resume my activities, always with the help of God and your prayers," he stated. The pontiff also urged pilgrims to prioritize serving God over selfish ambitions and shared that his experience had made him feel closer to those facing illness.
Prior to Sunday's public appearance, Pope Leo had already demonstrated signs of a strong recovery. He held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, met with top aides, and celebrated Mass in a hospital chapel. His personal physician and surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, stated that there were "no clinical reasons" to prevent the Pope from undertaking an upcoming trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru scheduled for November 6-17. Dr. Margaritora indicated that full recovery from the surgery was expected in about 10 more days.
The Vatican's decision to share details about the Pope's health represents a shift from historical practices, where the health of pontiffs was often kept private until their death. Pope Leo had announced the discovery of a nodule on his lung and the need for its removal to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square the previous Sunday.