Thousands welcome pope as he waves to crowd in first public appearance since cancer surgery
A gradual return to duties
Leo, 71, addressed worshippers in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, four days after surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. He thanked the crowd for its prayers and said he planned to ease back into his daily schedule.
“I will gradually resume my activities,” Leo said, adding that he would rely on God’s help and the faithful’s prayers. He also said his hospital stay had brought him closer to people living with illness and infirmity.
Diagnosis and hospital care
The Tuesday operation was the first major health event of Leo’s 17-month pontificate. It confirmed adenocarcinoma, described as the most common type of lung cancer.
Worshippers share their relief
An African delegation in Rome for a conference celebrated after the pope’s blessing, with members dancing and ululating. Alain Kalembu, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, said the group had prayed for Leo and was glad to see him.
Key points
- Pope Leo XIV thanked thousands of worshippers for praying after his lung surgery.
- The operation confirmed adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.
- Leo said he would gradually return to his activities and praised Gemelli hospital staff.
- Worshippers and visitors expressed relief at seeing the pope appear in public.