Pope Leo XIV appeared in public for the first time since undergoing major lung surgery, sharing a moment of spiritual reflection with his caregivers. The Vatican released images on Friday showing the seventy one year old pontiff celebrating Mass from a makeshift altar on the tenth floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. Dressed in a green robe, the Chicago born leader took the opportunity to personally thank the medical and nursing staff for their dedicated service during his stay.
The appearance follows a challenging week for the Holy Father, who was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after surgeons removed the entire lower lobe of his right lung. While the Pope initially informed followers during a Sunday prayer session that doctors had found a well contained nodule at an early stage, post operative tests confirmed the malignancy. Despite the gravity of the diagnosis, officials stated that the procedure was successful and devoid of complications.
Medical experts overseeing his care reported steady improvements in his general condition, noting that recent chest X rays show a positive recovery of the operated lung. After waking normally from anesthesia and spending several quiet nights under observation, the Pope remains stable. His medical team expects him to stay at Gemelli Hospital for approximately one more week before returning to his official duties.
Even amidst his recovery, the Pope continues to engage with global crises through diplomatic channels. Cardinal Pietro Parolin noted that high level communications regarding humanitarian aid and civilian safety have continued, with expressions of cooperation coming from international bodies like the United Nations and responses from the Kremlin concerning vital supply lines in conflict zones.
