Pope Leo XIV to Gradually Resume Duties After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo XIV emerged Sunday in St. Peter's Square to thank thousands of faithful for their prayers during his recent hospitalization for lung cancer surgery. The pontiff, who had the lower lobe of his right lung removed on Tuesday, announced his intention to gradually resume his usual duties.

"Now that this delicate phase is behind me, I will gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers," Leo said from the window overlooking the square, his voice strong just four days after the procedure. The 71-year-old pontiff's surgery confirmed adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.

During his brief hospital stay at Rome's Gemelli hospital, Leo told a reporter he was doing "much better." Upon his return to the Vatican, he stated that the experience had made him feel "especially close to those facing illness and infirmity." He expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the hospital and acknowledged the "support" he felt from the faithful.

The pontiff's appearance marked his first public address since revealing a lung nodule a week prior. The crowd erupted in cheers, with some visitors, like Alain Kalembu from the Democratic Republic of Congo, expressing joy at seeing him well. "He was always in our prayers when he was sick, and we are happy to see him today," Kalembu said.

American tourists also expressed relief and happiness. "I am just happy that we are praying with him today instead of for him, like we were before," said Marla Marsala of Michigan, who had a Mass with the pope canceled due to his hospitalization. Claire Holland of Jacksonville, Florida, described feeling "very blessed" to be present, noting, "I'm so happy that he has recovered so quickly."

Leo's surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, told Vatican News on Saturday that the pope is expected to fully recover in about ten days. Margaritora confirmed that there are no clinical reasons why the pontiff's planned Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru should not proceed. Histological testing of the tumor and lymph nodes is ongoing to determine if additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy, will be necessary.