Pope Leo returns to St. Peter’s Square 8 days after lung surgery
What’s next: The Vatican has not confirmed whether Leo will keep his Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
Pope Leo returned to St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday for his first general audience since lung cancer surgery, riding in the popemobile, greeting pilgrims and blessing babies eight days after the operation. The 71-year-old pontiff had the lower lobe of his right lung removed on Oct. 13 after doctors diagnosed lung adenocarcinoma. During the 50-minute audience, he thanked the crowd for its prayers and spoke in a clear voice. Doctors have said the surgery was successful and without complications, but the Vatican has not detailed the tumor’s size or whether the cancer had spread. Leo’s schedule remains uncertain as he recovers.