Pope Leo XIV Thanks Faithful Following Surgery

Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday for their prayers during his hospitalization. He plans a gradual return to his duties. The assembly expressed joy when he appeared at the window, a week after announcing the surgery to remove a nodule from his lung.

“Now that this delicate phase is behind me, I will gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers,” the Pope stated, sounding strong four days post-surgery. “This experience has made me feel particularly close to all those who are living with illness or infirmity,” he added.

Pope Leo XIV addresses worshippers from the window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter’s Square during the Sunday Angelus prayer in Vatican City, Vatican, on Oct. 18, 2026. Isabella Bonotto/Anadolu via Getty Images

The Pope expressed thanks for the care he received at Gemelli Hospital. A brief wave and retreat into his apartment followed. A delegation from Africa in Rome celebrated joyously post-blessing. “He was always in our prayers when he was sick, and we are happy to see him today,” stated Alain Kalembu from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

At age 71, Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. Diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, he made a swift recovery at Gemelli Hospital, leaving after four days. “I don’t believe it, because he was just operated on the other day,” said Cosimo Mastrocinque, a visitor from Puglia. American visitors shared their relief. Marla Marsala of Michigan was pleased to join the Pope in prayer, reflecting on the support he received. Claire Holland from Florida felt “very blessed” to witness his return.

The Pope’s next schedule includes a significant trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6-17, including extensive travel. Dr. Stefano Margaritora, his surgeon, sees no clinical reasons to alter plans, expecting full recovery shortly.

Ongoing tests on the tumor and lymph nodes will determine if further treatment is necessary. Options may include chemotherapy, combined therapy, or targeted treatments based on genetic markers.