Papal Tour Resumes: Leo Heads to South America After Lung Surgery

The Vatican confirmed on Friday that Pope Leo will proceed with his scheduled tour of South America. The announcement comes two weeks after the 71-year-old pope underwent surgery in Rome to remove a lung tumor. He will travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17, maintaining the original itinerary of ten cities. The Vatican stated that Leo is looking forward to the journey with great joy and enthusiasm.

Pope Leo was diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent a 90-minute operation on October 13. Surgeons removed a tumor from the lower part of his right lung. He was discharged from Rome's Gemelli hospital on October 17. His surgeon, Stefano Margaritora, reported that the pope is in an absolutely satisfactory clinical condition. Margaritora stated there are no clinical reasons to cancel the tour. Medical tests indicated the cancer was localized.

The pope first informed the public about the procedure on October 11. Speaking to a crowd in St. Peter's Square during his weekly Sunday prayers, he explained that doctors had found a nodule on his lung. He told pilgrims the growth was well-contained and caught at an early stage. He added that his medical team advised him to have it removed. Since the operation, he has been resting and gradually resuming his duties. The Vatican noted he is adjusting his daily schedule with his doctors to prioritize recovery while fulfilling his ministry.

The trip begins in Uruguay on November 8. He will visit Montevideo and other key cities in the country. He then moves to Argentina from November 11 to 17. That leg of the journey includes stops in Buenos Aires and other locations. The tour concludes with six days in Peru. Approximately 76% of Peru's population identifies as Catholic. The schedule includes visits to Lima, Chiclayo, Cuzco, and Pucallpa.

Peruvian Cardinal Castillo, the Archbishop of Lima, described the planned activities. The trip will involve young people, women who run community kitchens, and members of indigenous communities. Castillo pointed out the pope's close ties to Chiclayo, where Leo lived for several years. The pope holds Peruvian citizenship. He arrived in Peru as a missionary in 1985 at age 30. He joined the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas, located in the Piura department. He moved to a mission in Trujillo the following year. He worked between the United States and Peru for nearly three decades.

The Vatican said Friday that Leo would cancel a planned trip to Assisi on October 27. This change was made on the recommendation of his doctors. The pope expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and affection received from around the world.

The pope is set to depart for South America on November 6. The tour will cover three countries over twelve days. He will visit ten cities in total. The schedule remains unchanged from the original plans announced prior to his surgery.