First post-surgery images show Pope Leo XIV recovering in Rome
What's new: The Vatican said the 71-year-old can work independently and plans a public prayer appearance on Oct. 18.
Pope Leo XIV was shown for the first time since lung cancer surgery, with Vatican-released images from Rome's Gemelli Hospital showing him celebrating Mass and standing unaided. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a 90-minute operation on Oct. 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors found a nodule that was later identified as lung adenocarcinoma. The Vatican said follow-up blood tests and a chest X-ray showed steady improvement and good recovery of the operated lung. Leo is expected to remain in the hospital for about a week, and the Vatican said he is set to lead the traditional noontime prayer on Oct. 18 as planning continues for a November trip to South America.