In brief
After his lung operation, Pope Leo XIV returned to the church’s temple, spearheading a Mass from the tenth floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. He thanked doctors and nurses for their care and renewed his devotion to the faithful. The pontiff also called Russian President Vladimir Putin to plead for a ceasefire in Oleshky amid the Ukraine conflict. Doctors report the surgery was successful and his recovery is steady. Leo’s hospital visit signals resilience and compassion as he continues his mission from hospital walls.
After a successful lung operation, Pope Leo XIV returned to Italy’s spiritual circles by leading a Mass from the tenth floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The 71‑year‑old pontiff wore a green robe and stood beside a makeshift altar, thanking the medical staff for their care.
The doctors confirmed the procedure was “radical” – a whole lower lobe of the right lung was removed – and the Pope’s recovery has been steady.
In a heartfelt gesture, Leo called Russian President Vladimir Putin from the hospital to ask for a ceasefire in the war‑torn city of Oleshky, where access to food and water has been cut off. The Vatican said the Pope’s appeal was “a sign that the request will be carried out.”
While still convalescing, the Pope’s presence amid the hospital corridors underscores his resilience and reaffirmation of his global mission.
