In a statement released Friday, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV, 71, will remain in Rome instead of traveling to Assisi next week. Doctors have advised against the helicopter flight, recommending the pontiff stay put to aid his recovery from thoracic surgery performed last week.
Medical clearance and ongoing recovery
The pope underwent surgery to remove part of a lung after a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Follow‑up chest X‑rays show the cancer is localized, and the Vatican says no further treatment is required at this time. While the surgeon noted there are “no clinical reasons” to halt a planned Latin‑American trip in November, the short interval since the operation prompted a precautionary recommendation against the Assisi journey.
Assisi event and its significance
The Assisi gathering, scheduled for Tuesday, marks the 40th anniversary of St. John Paul II’s World Day of Prayer for Peace. It brings together Christian and other religious leaders to reaffirm the “spirit of Assisi,” dialogue, and the search for peaceful solutions amid global conflict. Pope Leo XIV will still send a message titled “Disarmed and Disarming Peace” to participants, organizers, and guests.
Future travel plans
Despite the cancellation, the Vatican confirmed the pope’s broader travel itinerary remains intact. He is expected to embark on a November 6‑17 tour of Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, which will involve multiple flights and two helicopter rides to high‑altitude locations. Thoracic surgeons typically advise patients to avoid air travel for three weeks after surgery, a timeline the pope appears to meet.
Public appearances
Since returning to the Vatican on Saturday, Pope Leo XIV has been seen in good health, speaking with a strong, clear voice during public engagements. The Vatican reiterated that his activities will continue to be guided by medical advice throughout his recovery.
Context of the Assisi tradition
The Assisi meeting was first convened by St. John Paul II in 1986 as a landmark interfaith peace gathering. Over the decades it has become a symbol of religious cooperation and a platform for leaders to promote dialogue and reconciliation.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
