In a reassuring update for the faithful, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will be released from the hospital on Saturday, four days after undergoing lung cancer surgery. The 71‑year‑old pontiff is expected to return to the Vatican in the early afternoon and will deliver his customary Sunday noon blessing from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square.
Successful Surgery and Rapid Recovery
Doctors removed the lower lobe of the pope’s right lung after identifying a suspected cancerous nodule. Pathology confirmed the presence of adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. According to his personal physician and surgeon, the pope was deemed fit for discharge based on recent blood tests, a chest X‑ray performed Saturday morning, and a thorough assessment of his overall clinical condition.
Since the operation on Tuesday, Pope Leo has shown strong signs of recovery. He participated in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, met with senior Vatican aides, and celebrated Mass in a makeshift hospital chapel. Medical bulletins from his physician and surgeon highlighted his ability to perform “normal daily activities completely on his own.”
First Images and Public Appearances
The Vatican released its first photographs of the pope since the surgery, showing him standing at an altar in a hospital chapel wearing green vestments. During the brief liturgy, he distributed Communion to medical staff and Vatican gendarmes and delivered a homily thanking the caregivers for their dedication to the sick.
Experts note that while the Vatican originally anticipated a week‑long hospital stay, patients may be discharged earlier depending on individual recovery rates. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni emphasized that the discharge date was determined by the pope’s doctors.
Upcoming Travel Plans
Looking ahead, Pope Leo’s next major agenda item is a trip to Latin America scheduled for November 6‑17. The itinerary includes a dozen flights and two helicopter trips. Oncology surgeons generally clear patients for air travel after three weeks, provided recovery permits. The Vatican has already published the names of journalists accredited to accompany the pope on his journey.
Doctors continue to await detailed test results to determine the precise molecular and genetic profile of the cancer, assess whether it has spread beyond the affected lobe, and decide if further treatment will be necessary.
Faith Community Response
The announcement has been met with prayers and messages of support from Catholics worldwide. The pope’s transparent communication about his health reflects the Vatican’s commitment to openness with the faithful, reinforcing confidence in the Church’s leadership during a time of personal trial.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
