Pope Leo leads Vatican prayers after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo XIV appeared at the window of the Apostolic Palace on Sunday to lead the traditional Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square, the Daily Mail and theliberal.ie reported. Thousands of worshippers gathered in the plaza to welcome the 71-year-old pontiff back following his lung cancer surgery, according to the Daily Mail. [1][2]

The pontiff left Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Saturday after undergoing a successful procedure, Al Jazeera and UPI reported. The Daily Mail and theliberal.ie noted that Pope Leo thanked well-wishers and told the crowds he has felt their support. He added that he will resume his duties gradually, the Daily Mail and Caledonian Record reported. [1][2][4][5][12]

Al Jazeera reported that the pope walked unaided when leaving the hospital. Doctors are awaiting further results to determine whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, Al Jazeera said. The publication theliberal.ie added that the pontiff had received good blood test results prior to his release. [4][6]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, Pope Leo underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after tests confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. He is the first American-born pope, as theliberal.ie reported. [2][6][15][16]