Pope Leo returned to public life on Sunday, five days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, telling thousands of pilgrims in St Peter’s Square that he would gradually resume his usual activities.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma.
Leo was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Saturday after doctors said blood tests and chest imaging showed he was well enough to return home and able to carry out normal daily activities independently.
Leo appeared at a window of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace on Sunday for his weekly midday appointment, speaking in a firm and clear voice.
“Having overcome this delicate phase... I will now gradually resume my activities, always with the help of God and your prayers,” he told pilgrims.
Around 15,000 people gathered in St Peter’s Square, according to the Vatican, applauding and cheering when the pope appeared.
A Catholic nun was seen kneeling and crying, while other nuns held a sign wishing the pope well and saying they were praying for him.
Leo also urged those gathered to set aside selfish ambitions and serve God “without compromise”.
Leo was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer, after doctors removed part of his right lung during Tuesday’s operation.
His doctors said the procedure was successful and that he could be fully recovered in time for his planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from 6 to 17 November.
The Vatican has cancelled the pope’s other public events until at least Wednesday, when he is due to hold his weekly general audience in St Peter’s Square. It has not yet confirmed whether the event will go ahead.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, said the pope may need to adjust the pace of his schedule depending on his health.
Leo was elected pope in May 2025 and is the first U.S. pope. He is 71 and is among the youngest popes in decades.
The latest appearance marked his first public event since his lung cancer surgery.
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