Pope Leo has pledged to gradually resume his regular duties as head of the Catholic Church after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, making his first public appearance since the operation at the Vatican on Sunday.
The 71-year-old pontiff addressed pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square from a window of the Apostolic Palace, thanking people around the world for their prayers and support.
“Having overcome this delicate phase… I will now gradually resume my activities, always with the help of God and your prayers,” Leo said.
His appearance came a day after he was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung on Tuesday.
Pope Thanks Supporters During First Public Appearance
Smiling as he greeted the crowd, Leo spoke in a firm, clear voice and held his customary weekly midday appointment.
According to the Vatican, approximately 15,000 people gathered in St Peter’s Square to see the pontiff. The crowd responded with applause and cheers when he appeared at the palace window.
One Catholic nun was seen kneeling and crying, covering her face with her hand. Nearby, another group of nuns held a sign expressing their support and prayers for the pope.
During his address, Leo also urged pilgrims to put aside selfish ambitions and serve God without compromise.
The appearance offered reassurance to Catholics following days of uncertainty about his health and the possible impact of his diagnosis on his papacy.
Pope Leo Diagnosed With Lung Cancer
Leo was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer. His diagnosis raised questions about how the illness might affect his responsibilities and the future direction of his papacy.
The pontiff, who was elected in May 2025, is the first pope from the United States.
Doctors discharged him on Saturday after blood tests and chest imaging indicated that he was well enough to return home. Medical officials said he could carry out normal daily activities independently.
His recovery will now determine how quickly he can return to his usual schedule. The Vatican has cancelled his other public engagements until at least Wednesday, when he is scheduled to hold his weekly general audience in St Peter’s Square. It has not confirmed whether that event will take place.
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November Visit to South America Remains Under Review
The pope is planning a visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to 17. The trip is expected to involve an intensive schedule of engagements across the three countries.
His lead surgeon, Dr Stefano Margaritora, said on Saturday that Leo could recover fully in time for the visit.
However, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin has expressed caution about the pope’s ability to maintain his usual pace.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, Parolin said Leo might need to adjust his schedule according to the condition of his health.
The Vatican has yet to confirm whether the planned journey will proceed as scheduled or whether changes will be necessary.
Recovery to Shape Pope’s Upcoming Schedule
Leo’s pledge to return gradually signals that he intends to resume his responsibilities while allowing time for recovery.
His doctors have indicated that he was fit to leave hospital, but the timing and extent of his return to public engagements remain dependent on his progress.
The planned November visit to South America is a significant upcoming commitment, although questions remain about whether the pontiff will be able to undertake the full itinerary.
For now, the Vatican is keeping his immediate schedule limited as he recovers from surgery, while Catholics around the world continue to offer prayers and messages of support.
