VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has made his first public appearance following surgery for lung cancer, thanking people around the world for their prayers and promising to gradually resume his duties as leader of the Catholic Church.

The 71-year-old pontiff appeared at a window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St Peter’s Square on Sunday, October 18, where thousands of faithful gathered to see him.

His appearance came a day after he was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung.

Speaking to the crowd, Pope Leo expressed gratitude to those who had supported him during his hospital stay.

“I would like to thank all those who have prayed for me in recent days. I have truly sensed your support,” he said, according to Vatican News.

The Pope also thanked the doctors, nurses and other medical staff who cared for him during his treatment.

Pope Says He Will Gradually Resume His Duties

During his first public appearance since the operation, Pope Leo said he would begin returning to his regular activities gradually, while continuing to rely on God’s help and the prayers of the faithful.

His appearance was met with applause and cheers from the crowd gathered in St Peter’s Square. Some visibly emotional supporters welcomed his return after days of concern about his health.

The Vatican has indicated that his public schedule will remain limited while he recovers. His medical team previously confirmed that he was fit to leave hospital after examinations, including blood tests and chest imaging.

Surgery Raises Questions About His Future Schedule

The Pope’s diagnosis and surgery have drawn international attention, particularly because of the responsibilities attached to leading the world’s Catholic community.

He is scheduled to travel to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to 17. However, his ability to follow the planned itinerary will depend on his recovery and any necessary adjustments to his schedule.

For now, his first public appearance offers an important update: he has returned to the Vatican and intends to resume his responsibilities step by step.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

Beyond the medical update, the Pope’s words carried a message for people facing illness and difficult circumstances. He said his experience had brought him closer to those living with sickness and physical weakness.

His recovery will continue to be watched closely by Catholics and others around the world as the Vatican provides further updates.

Utelnova will continue to follow developments concerning Pope Leo XIV’s recovery and his return to public duties.

Source: Vatican News and Reuters, October 18, 2026.