Pope Leo told a crowd gathered in St Peter’s Square on Sunday that he would “gradually resume” his activities, in his first appearance before the faithful since undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his lung. The 71-year-old Catholic leader was greeted with applause as he appeared unaided at the window of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace to deliver his Sunday angelus. It was his first public appearance since making the shock announcement at the previous Sunday’s address that a small nodule had been found on his lung. Leo was diagnosed with the most common kind of lung cancer – adenocarcinoma – on Tuesday, after doctors removed part of his right lung to extract the tumour. He thanked those who had prayed for him in recent days, saying he appreciated the support and adding that the experience had made him feel especially close “to all those who are going through illness or a state of infirmity”. “Now that this delicate phase has passed … I will gradually resume my activities, always with the help of God and your prayers,” he said. Leo left Gemelli hospital in Rome on Saturday, where doctors deemed him “fit for discharge” after he underwent blood tests and a chest X-ray that morning. Doctors said on Wednesday that Leo’s recovery from the operation was progressing normally. They said they were waiting for test results to determine whether the cancer had spread and if more treatment would be needed. The Vatican had originally estimated a week-long stay in hospital. The pope undertook some work duties in hospital, including making a phone call on Friday to Vladimir Putin, during which he urged the Russian president to call a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky. There have been questions over whether Leo would be able to manage a gruelling 12-day trip to South America in November. However, his surgeon, Stefano Margaritora, said on Saturday that there were “no clinical reasons” to prevent him from travelling. “The Holy Father has put his heart and soul into his recovery,” Margaritora told Vatican News, adding that he expected the pope to fully recover from the operation “in another 10 days or so”. Before the cancer diagnosis, Leo, who enjoys sports, especially tennis, was generally believed to be in good health. He often makes use of the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo, close to Rome. The Gemelli, located in the north-west of the Italian capital, is renowned for treating reigning popes. Pope John Paul II stayed there so many times that the Vatican worked with the hospital to establish a high-security papal suite.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs Pope Pledges Gradual Return to Duties at First Vatican Event Since Cancer Surgery
1 What happened with the Pope recently
Pope Francis had surgery for colon cancer and has been recovering He recently made his first public appearance at the Vatican since the operation
2 What did the Pope say at this event
He pledged to return to his duties gradually meaning he will ease back into work rather than resume everything at once
3 What is a gradual return to duties
It means resuming responsibilities step by stepstarting with lighter tasks and building up strength over time instead of jumping straight back into a full schedule
4 Why is a gradual return important after cancer surgery
Recovery takes time Rushing back can slow healing or cause setbacks A gradual approach helps the body adjust and reduces the risk of complications
5 What was significant about this Vatican event
It was his first public appearance since the surgery so it signaled that he is recovering and beginning to reengage with his role
6 Who leads the Church while the Pope recovers
The Pope remains the head of the Church but daytoday operations are handled by Vatican officials and aides who support him during recovery
7 What kinds of duties will the Pope resume first
Typically lighter activities come firstsuch as brief meetings short appearances and reading documentsbefore returning to large public events and travel
8 What are common challenges during recovery from cancer surgery
Fatigue reduced stamina dietary changes and the need for rest are common Patients often need to pace themselves and follow medical advice
9 How can someone support a person recovering from surgery
Encourage rest help with daily tasks keep visits short and follow the doctors guidance Patience and low stress are key
10 What practical tips help with a gradual return to work after surgery
Start with short hours take frequent breaks avoid heavy workloads early on and check in with a doctor before increasing activity
11 What does convalescence mean
Its the period of recovery after illness or surgerythe time your body needs to heal and regain strength
12 Why do public figures often announce a gradual return
It manages public expectations shows they are recovering without overpromising and gives them flexibility if recovery
