Pope Leo XIV returned to St Peter’s Square in the popemobile on Wednesday, October 21, marking his first general audience since undergoing surgery for lung cancer eight days earlier.
The 71-year-old pontiff waved to pilgrims, smiled and blessed babies from his open-air vehicle as he resumed a major public engagement at the Vatican, offering an encouraging sign of recovery for the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
The appearance came after the Pope underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung following a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
Pope Thanks Faithful for Their Prayers
Addressing the crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square, Pope Leo expressed gratitude for the support and prayers he had received during his illness.
“The first thing I want to say to you is thank you for the support and prayers,” he told the congregation.
The Pope delivered a sermon in Italian during the approximately 50-minute audience. Although the event followed its usual format, he offered greetings in seven additional languages instead of the nine typically used, suggesting some adjustments to his public schedule as he continues recovering.
He did not directly discuss his medical condition during the audience.
Recovery Continues After Lung Cancer Operation
The Vatican has said the surgery was completed successfully and without complications. However, doctors have not publicly disclosed the full details of the tumour, including whether the cancer had spread to nearby lymph nodes.
These findings are important in determining the disease’s stage, prognosis and whether further treatment may be required.
Pope Leo, who was elected in May 2025, had pledged to resume his duties gradually following his hospital discharge on October 17.
His return to the popemobile demonstrates that he is once again undertaking public engagements, although it does not establish that he has fully recovered.
November South America Visit Remains Uncertain
Attention is now turning to the Pope’s planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to 17.
The Vatican has yet to confirm whether the trip will proceed as scheduled. While his lead surgeon has indicated that recovery could allow him to travel, senior Vatican officials have suggested that adjustments may be necessary to protect his health.
The visit would represent a significant international engagement for the pontiff, but his medical recovery remains a priority.
For Catholics around the world, Wednesday’s appearance offered a moment of reassurance as Pope Leo gradually returns to public life. His future schedule will depend on his continued recovery and further medical assessments.
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