Pope Leo XIV celebrates Mass at Rome hospital while doctors note steady recovery

Mass celebrated in hospital The Vatican made public the first photographs of Pope Leo XIV since his lung operation, showing the pontiff in green vestments leading a liturgy at a chapel inside the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome. According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the pope conducted the service alone, distributed Communion to the attending medical staff and Vatican security personnel, and delivered a short homily in which he thanked the caregivers for their dedication to vulnerable patients, including himself.

Medical update confirms improvement Doctors at the Gemelli Hospital have issued a medical update signed by the pope’s personal physician, Dr Luigi Carbone, and the head of thoracic surgery, Dr Stefano Margaritora. The statement says that the post‑operative recovery enables the 71‑year‑old pontiff to carry out his normal daily activities independently. Blood tests and chest X‑rays are reported to show a steady improvement, and the team expects him to remain in the hospital until at least 20 October.

Ongoing diplomatic outreach During the same day, the pope spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing deep concern about the humanitarian situation in the Ukrainian city of Oleshky and urging a cease‑fire to facilitate the delivery of food, medical aid and the safe evacuation of civilians. Vatican officials said the conversation underscored the Holy See’s commitment to dialogue and peace.

Upcoming public appearances and travel plans Vatican officials announced that Pope Leo XIV will make his first public appearance on Sunday, delivering the traditional noontime Angelus prayer. While it is not yet confirmed whether the prayer will be recited from St Peter’s Square or from the hospital, Cardinal Pietro Parolin indicated that the location will depend on the pope’s recovery progress. The pontiff also met with senior clergy, including Archbishop Paolo Rudelli, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle and Cardinal Baldassare Reina, before the Mass.

Future itinerary Preparations continue for the pope’s planned visit to South America in November, although the Vatican noted that the itinerary could be adjusted if his health requires it. The release of get‑well cards from patients in the hospital’s pediatric oncology ward highlighted the broader support the pope receives from the medical community.

Overall, the Vatican’s latest communications portray a recovering pontiff who is resuming limited duties, maintaining diplomatic engagement, and preparing for upcoming religious and pastoral responsibilities.