On Friday, the Vatican released images of Pope Leo XIV sitting behind a makeshift altar on the tenth floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, celebrating Mass in a green robe. The 71‑year‑old pontiff has been recuperating after a successful surgery to remove a nodule from his right lung, which the Vatican later confirmed was lung adenocarcinoma.
The pope appeared to be in good spirits, thanking the medical and nursing staff for their support. Doctors have reported steady improvement in the pontiff’s condition, with a chest X‑ray indicating good lung recovery and no signs of infection or illness.
These images mark the first public appearance of the pope since the operation, and Vatican officials note he is expected to remain in the hospital for about a week as he continues his healing process.
The papal health update comes amid growing concerns among the Vatican community about the future of the papacy, given the complexity of his medical condition and the potential impact on his duties.
