Pope Leo Confirms Ten-City South American Tour After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo will travel to South America in November, the Vatican confirmed on Friday, less than two weeks after he underwent surgery to remove a lung tumor. The 71-year-old leader is scheduled to visit Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17, adhering to the original ten-city itinerary.

The Pope announced his diagnosis during his weekly audience on October 11, stating that doctors had found a nodule on his lung. He described the growth as well-contained and caught at an early stage. The 90-minute operation took place on October 13 at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Surgeon Stefano Margaritora reported that the cancer was localized and that the Pope is in an absolutely satisfactory clinical condition with no clinical reasons to delay the trip.

The journey begins in Uruguay on November 8, where the Pope will visit Montevideo and other major cities. He will move to Argentina from November 11 to 17, with stops including Buenos Aires. The final leg of the tour takes him to Peru, where approximately 76% of the population identifies as Catholic. He will spend six days in the country, visiting Lima, Chiclayo, Cuzco, and Pucallpa.

Pope Leo, who holds Peruvian citizenship, has deep personal ties to the region. He was sent to Peru as a missionary in 1985 at age 30, joining the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas before moving to Trujillo. He worked between the United States and Peru for nearly three decades. Cardinal Carlos Castillo, the Archbishop of Lima, noted that the trip will include meetings with young people, women who manage community kitchens, and indigenous community members.

The Pope expressed that he looks forward to the visit with great joy and enthusiasm. He told the Vatican that he is eager to return to the continent where he experienced so many moments of his life. Since his discharge from the hospital on October 17, the Pope has been resting and gradually resuming his duties. The Vatican stated that he is adjusting his daily schedule with his doctors to prioritize recovery while fulfilling his ministry.

In a related announcement, the Vatican said the Pope would cancel a planned trip to Assisi on October 27. His doctors recommended this change to allow for further rest. The Pope has expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and affection received from around the world during his recovery.