Pope Leo XIV Returns to Public Life After Lung Cancer Surgery, Thanks Supporters
Pope Leo XIV made his first major public appearance on Sunday, October 18, 2026, after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, drawing cheers from thousands of worshippers gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
The 71-year-old pontiff appeared at the window of the Apostolic Palace to lead the traditional Angelus prayer. He thanked people around the world for their prayers and expressed special gratitude to the doctors, nurses and medical staff who cared for him at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
The Pope underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors…
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