Pope Leo returns to Vatican, vows gradual comeback after surgery

Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican on Oct. 17, four days after surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, and told pilgrims the next day that he would gradually resume his duties. The 71-year-old pope, diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, appeared unaided at a window of the Apostolic Palace for the Angelus prayer, thanking well-wishers for their prayers. Doctors at Rome's Gemelli hospital said blood tests and chest imaging showed he was fit to go home and able to handle daily activities independently. The Vatican has paused his other public appearances until at least Oct. 21. Leo, elected in May 2025, is still scheduled to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from Nov. 6 to Nov. 17, though Cardinal Pietro Parolin has said his pace may need to match his health.