Pope Leo XIV Returns to Duties After Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV appeared at the window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican for the traditional noon blessing after praying the Angelus on Sunday, October 18, 2026. This came a day after the pope returned from the hospital where he had surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his lung.

Addressing thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude for their prayers and support during his hospitalization. The crowd cheered as he appeared at the window, where he had revealed a week earlier that a nodule on his lung required surgical removal.

The pope stated, “Now that this delicate phase is behind me, I will gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers.” His voice was strong despite the recent removal of the lower lobe of his right lung.

Pope Leo XIV shared that the experience made him feel particularly close to those suffering from illness. He thanked the medical team at Gemelli hospital for their care. After his address, he waved to the crowd before retreating into his apartment.

A delegation from Africa in Rome for a congress celebrated with dance and ululation after the pope’s blessing. Alain Kalembu from the Democratic Republic of Congo shared, “He was always in our prayers when he was sick, and we are happy to see him today.”

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent his first significant health challenge since taking office 17 months ago. Surgery confirmed he had adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Despite anticipations of a longer hospital stay, Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican sooner, saying he was doing “much better.”

Cosimo Mastrocinque, a retired factory worker visiting from Puglia, exclaimed, “It is a miracle that he recovered already.” Meanwhile, Marla Marsala from Michigan expressed relief at praying with the pope rather than for him, praising his resolve and strength.

Claire Holland from Jacksonville, Florida, felt “very blessed” to witness the pope’s return. “I think there have been millions and millions of prayers. He is a strong, determined man,” she said.

Looking ahead, Pope Leo XIV plans to embark on a significant journey from November 6-17, visiting Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. His itinerary includes numerous flights and high-altitude helicopter rides. According to his surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, there are no clinical reasons to deter the trip.

Dr. Margaritora stated the pope has put great effort into recovering, predicting complete recovery “in another 10 days or so.” Detailed testing of the tumor and lymph nodes is underway to assess any need for further therapy, including potential chemotherapy or immunotherapy based on genetic analysis.