ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV showed promising signs of recovery following his lung cancer surgery. On a recent Friday, he engaged in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, addressed his top aides, and celebrated Mass in a makeshift chapel within the hospital, highlighting his active role in the governance of the Catholic Church amid his recuperation.
The Vatican reported that during the conversation with Putin, the Pope expressed grave concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in Oleshky, situated in the Kherson region. He called for a ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of food and medical assistance, as well as for the voluntary and safe evacuation of civilians. The Holy Father underscored the Vatican's commitment to fostering dialogue and promoting peace.
This communication illustrated Leo's ability to handle official diplomatic matters despite his recent surgery. The Kremlin's summary of the dialogue suggested progress had been made regarding humanitarian assistance, with Putin acknowledging Leo's concerns and outlining accountability attributed to the Kyiv government for the humanitarian difficulties encountered in Oleshky. He expressed support for the Vatican's efforts to ensure local residents' safety and assist in delivering essential supplies, mentioning an agreement to coordinate these efforts.
In a separate event on the same day, the Vatican unveiled the first images of Leo XIV following his lung cancer surgery from October 13. The photos portrayed him standing at the altar, donned in green vestments, as medical professionals confirmed his "continued improvement." The 71-year-old Pope underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, which revealed the presence of adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
Medical updates communicated by Leo’s personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, and Dr. Stefano Margaritora, head of thoracic surgery at Gemelli hospital, indicated that his post-operative recovery allows him to engage in daily activities independently. Leo personally presided over the liturgy, administering Communion to the medical staff and Vatican gendarmes present. His homily expressed gratitude to the hospital personnel for their dedication in caring for the sick, especially during his recovery.
The Vatican confirmed that Leo XIV would lead the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday, though it remains uncertain whether he would be at the hospital or return to the Vatican for the occasion. Initially, the Vatican anticipated a weeklong stay for the Pope's recovery and had canceled his audiences through the following Tuesday. However, his expressed gratitude during the homily raised questions about the necessity of an extended hospital stay, depending on medical assessments at that time.
In a further sign of optimism regarding Leo’s tenure, the Vatican began organizing for his upcoming trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, scheduled for November 6-17, by publishing the names of journalists designated to accompany him. There were prior doubts concerning the feasibility of this journey in light of his recent diagnosis. Nevertheless, the issuance of the media list indicated an intention to proceed with the travel plans.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, mentioned on Friday that Pope Leo XIV’s recovery appeared to be progressing well. However, he had previously suggested that adjustments to the pontificate might be necessary due to Leo's health issues. After some clarity on his earlier statement, Parolin specified that adjustments should be contingent upon Leo's health, particularly concerning the impending trip.
Despite Parolin's proximity to the Pope at Gemelli hospital, he did not visit Leo personally; instead, he was replaced by two other Cardinals, Baldassare Reina, the Pope's vicar for Rome, and Luis Antonio Tagle, the newly elected dean of the College of Cardinals.
