Pope Leo XIV hospitalized in Rome
Photo: Pope Leo XIV (Getty Images)
Pope Leo XIV has arrived at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Today, October 13, the pontiff is scheduled to undergo lung surgery, according to Vatican News.
What is known about the surgery
The Press Office of the Holy See reports that the planned surgery involves the removal of a nodular formation in the lung and will be performed by a team of thoracic surgeons led by Professor Stefano Margaritora.
The formation was detected during a routine medical examination. According to the Vatican, it is small, clearly localized, and in a very early stage.
Doctors need to determine whether it is malignant. Updated information on the pontiff's condition is expected in the evening.
As reported by the Vatican, Leo XIV will likely remain in the hospital for about a week after the surgery. All his audiences have been canceled until October 20.
How the Pope is feeling
Leo XIV announced the upcoming surgery after the Sunday Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square. Following this, wishes for a speedy recovery began pouring in from churches and political leaders around the world.
In the evening, Cardinal Vicar of the Diocese of Rome Baldassare Reina is scheduled to lead the Rosary for the Pope's health in the Chapel of Saint John Paul II at the hospital. Parish and monastic communities of Rome are also invited to join the prayer.
How the hospitalization has affected the Vatican's work
Due to the hospitalization, Leo XIV did not participate in the afternoon meeting at the Vatican dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the apostolic exhortation Amoris laetitia. On the morning of October 12, the pontiff held all scheduled audiences.
On October 14, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle will lead the Mass in St. Peter's Square instead of the pontiff. During the service, participants will pray for the health of Leo XIV.
Pope Leo XIV announced a meeting between Matteo Zuppi and representatives of the Russian authorities for negotiations regarding Ukraine. In particular, discussions focused on the return of abducted Ukrainian children, prisoner exchanges, and resolving other humanitarian problems caused by the war.
Earlier, Leo XIV called on Putin to contribute to peace in Ukraine.
