Pope Leo XIV, dressed in white and beaming with a smile, made his way to the window of his Vatican study to deliver the Angelus and express gratitude to the faithful for their prayers, which he credited with promoting their well-being.
Pope Francis made a public appearance on Sunday from the Apostolic Palace, marking his first public outing following a recent medical procedure.
The Vatican announced that the Pope underwent thoracic surgery on Tuesday to remove a detected nodule, which was subsequently found to be a result of lung cancer.
A 90-minute surgical procedure took place at the Gemelli Policlinic in Rome, resulting in the removal of the lower lobe of the patient's right lung.
Following a comprehensive examination that included blood tests, chest X-rays and other clinical assessments, the patient was discharged from the hospital on Saturday by his medical team.
Pope Francis was seen leaving the hospital in the afternoon, walking and visibly in good spirits, as he exchanged warm greetings with the large crowd gathered outside.
Pope Leo XIV expressed his gratitude to the thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, as well as those worldwide tuning in to the broadcast, for their prayers and support on Sunday.
The individual has now navigated a challenging period and plans to gradually resume his activities, relying on divine guidance and the support of prayers.
During his Angelus address, the Pope referenced the Gospel of Matthew, highlighting a pivotal teaching attributed to Jesus: the distinction between rendering to earthly authorities what is rightfully theirs and giving to God what is due to Him.
Vatican News featured a Sunday interview with Italian surgeon Stefano Margaritora, who performed the surgery on Pope Leo XIV.
The Pope's overall health condition is reported to be in a satisfactory state.
The lungs are recovering according to the expected timeline following the medical intervention.
The pope is expected to make a full recovery within approximately ten days, according to the latest medical assessment, with his condition described as ideal for a swift and successful recovery.
Margaritora expressed optimism regarding the upcoming Latin American tour of Pope Leo XIV, scheduled to take place from November 6 to November 17.
A full physical recovery following this type of intervention typically requires two to four weeks. Given that nearly a week has elapsed, it is anticipated that the Pope will make a complete recovery within approximately ten additional days.
A long trip involving flight travel in approximately three weeks is considered feasible from a clinical perspective, with no medical concerns that would prevent it.
Thousands of devoted followers gathered in St. Peter's Square, where they welcomed the Pope with enthusiasm.
A Catholic nun was overcome with emotion, visibly expressing her distress, according to a report by the Reuters news agency.
As she stood nearby, a group of fellow nuns held up a banner expressing their well-wishes to the Holy Father.
