The 71-year-old pontiff reveals during his Sunday blessing that doctors detected a small, early-stage lesion requiring an imminent surgical procedure.
Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he will undergo surgery in Rome to remove a lung nodule.
The 71-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church made the personal disclosure during his weekly noon Angelus blessing.
Speaking to thousands gathered in Saint Peter’s Square, the American-born pontiff stated that the nodule was detected early.
He explained that recent routine medical examinations revealed a small, well-localized, and circumscribed lesion requiring medical intervention.
“The doctors believe it is best to take action, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery,” he said.
The pontiff asked the global Catholic community for their spiritual support and prayers as he prepares for the operation.
Vatican press office director Matteo Bruni confirmed that the procedure is scheduled for the early days of this week.
The operation will take place at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the primary medical facility historically used for papal healthcare.
Vatican officials expect a post-operative recovery period of approximately one week following the upcoming surgical procedure.
The announcement represents the first significant health event of Pope Leo’s seventeen-month pontificate since his historic election.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity and prayers on behalf of the Italian government following the announcement.
She praised the serenity and calm confidence displayed by the pontiff while discussing his health condition publicly.
Medical experts note that lung nodules are common formations that frequently prove to be benign upon surgical extraction.
The pontiff has maintained an active daily schedule, featuring regular public audiences, weekly athletic activities, and international travel.
Church leaders worldwide have voiced overwhelming support, urging Catholic faithful to offer continuous prayers for his speedy recovery.
Vatican officials will provide regular medical updates regarding his post-surgery progress throughout the coming days at Gemelli Hospital.
Cardinals and bishops from across Europe and the Americas immediately sent formal letters expressing their solidarity and prayers.
The news was received with solemn silence across Saint Peter’s Square before pilgrims erupted into supportive applause.
Observers noted that the Pope delivered his address with a clear, strong voice, showing no visible sign of physical distress.
Healthcare staff at Gemelli Hospital have already prepared the specialized papal suite on the tenth floor for his arrival.
This dedicated medical wing has historically accommodated previous popes during major medical procedures and extended clinical recoveries.
Surgical specialists at the facility confirmed that modern minimally invasive techniques will likely be used during the procedure.
Such advanced surgical methods help accelerate healing times and significantly reduce the overall risk of post-operative complications.
The Vatican confirmed that all scheduled private audiences and general public events for the upcoming week remain officially suspended.
Despite the temporary suspension of public duties, church administrators assured the public that essential governance activities will proceed smoothly.
Financial markets and diplomatic delegations in Rome monitored the announcement closely as official statements continued circulating across global media networks.
Prominent religious figures emphasized that Pope Leo’s open communication reflects his commitment to transparency throughout his papal tenure.
Supporters around the world continue sharing heartfelt prayers across digital platforms, expressing confidence in a complete and rapid recovery.
As show of solidarity, churches across Italy announced special evening prayer vigils dedicated to the pontiff’s ongoing health.
Vatican communications officers promised to release additional updates as soon as the medical team completes the scheduled procedure.







