Pope Leo XIV thanked the faithful this Sunday for the prayers he received during the days he was hospitalized and expressed his gratitude to the staff of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, where he underwent surgery. He did so at the end of the Angelus prayer, from the window of the Apostolic Palace, before more than 15,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square and the adjoining Pius XII Square.
According to the information released, the Pontiff was discharged yesterday from Gemelli Polyclinic, after the removal last Tuesday of the lower lobe of his right lung due to an adenocarcinoma. During his appearance, Leo XIV received the affection of the faithful amid applause and said: «I wish to thank all those who have prayed for me these days.» He added: «I have truly felt your support. Thank you!»
The square filled with pilgrims, families, religious, priests and nuns, as well as numerous photographers and people raising their phones to capture the moment. The Pope responded to the affection by remaining at the window a few moments longer, smiling and greeting those present. He also expressed his gratitude to the doctors, nurses and all the staff of Gemelli Polyclinic.
Leo XIV shared with those present what he has experienced and offered a special thought for the sick: «This experience has made me feel in a special way the closeness of those who are facing illness or a situation of disability.» He also looked ahead to his upcoming commitments: «Once this delicate phase is over—as you know—I will now gradually resume my activities, always with the help of God and your prayers.» The square responded with another round of applause and the Pontiff repeated: «Thank you all and have a good Sunday.»
Context and relevance
The Pope’s surgery and subsequent recovery have been closely followed by the faithful, who gathered in St. Peter’s Square to show their closeness to him. Leo XIV’s public gratitude, both to those who prayed for him and to healthcare staff, underscores the pastoral dimension of illness and the importance of prayer in the life of the Church. As the Pontiff gradually resumes his activities, he counts on the spiritual support of the Catholic community.
Original source: www.vaticannews.va (published October 18, 2026)
