Pope Leo XIV’s recovery from surgery is “progressing normally” according to his doctors, following an operation earlier this week which removed a section of his lung.
The Holy See released two separate statements on Wednesday, giving details of the recovery. In a further message, directly from Pope Leo XIV, he thanked people for their prayers and asked them to continue praying.
The first statement, released on Wednesday morning, had little details but simply stated the night passed calmly for the Pope.
In the afternoon, the Holy See Press Office released a more detailed statement.
“This morning, the Holy Father underwent the blood tests and chest X-ray scheduled after surgery. The results confirm that his postoperative recovery is progressing normally: the values are within the expected range for the type of operation performed,” said the statement.
“The Holy Father has undergone respiratory physiotherapy and has begun walking around his room. He has resumed eating normally and had breakfast and lunch. His recovery is proceeding as expected.”
Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, later told journalists the Pope had celebrated Mass on Wednesday afternoon in a hospital room specifically prepared for the purpose.
In a separate statement, Pope Leo XIV wrote a message to Catholics participating in a symposium for the 10th anniversary of Amoris Laetitia, which had been prepared prior to his surgery.
“As you know, I have been unable to be among you during these days. I thank you warmly for your prayers,” he said.
“I ask you please to pray for me, as I pray for you.”
The Holy Father had originally announced the recovery time from the surgery was expected to be a week. So far, no change to this timeline has been communicated and his recovery appears to be on track.
