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Pope Leo XIV has expressed gratitude to Catholics around the world for their prayers following surgery for lung cancer in Rome, offering his first public message since undergoing the procedure as he begins his recovery.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the pontiff thanked participants in a symposium marking the tenth anniversary of Amoris laetitia, a document written by his predecessor, Pope Francis, addressing the Church's approach to couples and families. Although unable to attend the gathering in person, Leo praised the participants for sharing their experiences and listening to one another.
"I thank you warmly for your prayers and for the work you have done together," the pope wrote. He also asked the faithful to continue praying for him, assuring them that he was praying for them in return.
The message came a day after doctors diagnosed Leo with pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, during a 90 minute surgical procedure in Rome. Medical staff removed the lower lobe of one of his lungs after the growth was discovered at an early stage.
Doctors Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora said the pope's recovery was progressing as expected. Despite the operation, Leo has already demonstrated encouraging signs of improvement. He has reportedly been able to walk around his hospital quarters and participate in Mass alongside fellow priests in a room specially prepared on his floor.
The pope had disclosed plans for the surgery during an address to worshippers in St Peter's Square over the weekend, explaining that doctors had identified a growth on his lung.
Although Leo is not known to smoke and has reportedly maintained a healthy lifestyle, cancer has affected his immediate family. His older brother, Louis Prevost, is currently receiving cancer treatment, while their parents died from the disease in the 1990s.
The Vatican has cancelled the pope's public appearances until October 20 to allow him time to recover. However, questions remain over whether his planned trip to South America next month will proceed as scheduled.
For Catholics, Leo's message has offered a glimpse of the pontiff's determination to remain spiritually connected to the faithful despite his temporary absence from public duties. His recovery will now be closely watched as the Vatican balances his medical needs with an already demanding schedule.
