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Pope Leo Makes First Public Appearance Following Lung Surgery

Published 2h ago · Latest report 1h ago

Affects Vatican City · Covered in 5 countries

Earlier on this storyPope Leo Returns Home After Successful Lung Cancer Surgery1w ago

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Pope Leo XIV led Sunday prayers from the Apostolic Palace balcony in his first appearance since cancer surgery.

Pope Leo XIV addressed thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square on Sunday, marking his first public appearance since undergoing surgery for lung cancer. Speaking from the balcony of the Apostolic Palace, the 71-year-old pontiff recited the weekly Angelus prayer and expressed gratitude for global support. He announced that he will progressively resume papal responsibilities ahead of a planned visit to South America in November.

The procedureSurgeons removed the lower lobe of the pontiff's right lung on Tuesday before clearing him to return home on Saturday.
Message of solidarityThe pope shared that his health crisis gave him a deep personal empathy for others confronting severe illness and physical infirmity.

What's new · 1h agoPope Leo delivered the Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace balcony, his first speech to the public since being discharged from the hospital.

Written from 6 of 8 outlets — 2 have since joined this story.

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Why it matters

The public appearance follows the pontiff's discharge from a Rome hospital just four days after cancer surgery. Demonstrating an unexpectedly rapid initial recovery, the address was closely watched by Catholics worldwide as a gauge of his ability to maintain demanding international travel.

Timeline3

Oct 13Pope Leo XIV undergoes surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung to treat cancer.
Oct 17The pontiff leaves hospital and returns to the Vatican after completing preliminary postoperative recovery.
Oct 18Pope Leo delivers the Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace balcony before thousands of pilgrims.

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What outlets agree on

Pope Leo XIV delivered his weekly Angelus prayer to a large crowd in St. Peter's Square, thanking the faithful for their prayers following right lung surgery and confirming his intent to resume duties gradually.

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