Pope Leo says he will “gradually resume my activities” after cancer surgery

October 18, 2026 / 7:28 AM EDT / CBS/AP

Pope Leo XIV thanked thousands of faithful in St. Peter's Square on Sunday for their prayers while he was hospitalized for an operation to remove a malignant tumor, and said he plans to gradually return to his usual duties.

The crowd erupted in cheers when the pontiff showed himself in the window overlooking the square, where a week ago on the same occasion of the traditional Angelus blessing he revealed that a nodule had been located on his lung, and that it would be surgically removed.

''Now that this delicate phase is behind me, I will gradually resume my activities, always with God's help and your prayers," Leo said, his voice sounding strong four days after the lower lobe of his right lung was removed.

"This experience has made me feel particularly close to all those who are living with illness or infirmity," the pope said.

He told the crowd that he had ''truly felt your support,'' and expressed ''particular gratitude to the doctors, nurses and all the staff at Gemelli Hospital," where he was treated.

The pope paused for a moment and waved to the crowd before retreating into his…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/world/