Based on the excellent results of the latest tests and an impeccable clinical recovery, Pope Leo XIV will leave the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome early this afternoon to return to the Vatican. Just five days after undergoing surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung following a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, the Pontiff has been given the all-clear and will resume his public activities immediately.

The official confirmation came late this morning from Dr. Luigi Carbone, Director of Health and Hygiene for Vatican City State, and Professor Stefano Margaritora, head of the thoracic surgery team that led the postoperative follow-up. Both specialists agreed that the chest X-rays taken early this morning and the blood tests confirm that the Holy Father is fully recovered and can continue his convalescence at his residence.

Mass on the tenth floor and full independence

Before concluding his hospital stay, the Holy Father celebrated Holy Mass again at 12:00 noon in the chapel on the tenth floor of the medical center, just as he had done the previous day. In his homily, Leo XIV expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors, nurses, and support staff of the hospital, thanking them for “the work they do every day caring for the sick and their weaknesses,” as well as for the attentive care they provided during his own surgery and stay.

According to the Holy See Press Office, the Pope’s overall health has steadily improved since his surgery on the afternoon of October 13. The rapid healing process and the Pontiff’s positive attitude have allowed him to “carry out his daily activities with complete independence.”

Return to the Sunday agenda

The Pope’s return to the Vatican also marks the immediate resumption of his spiritual commitments to the faithful. The Holy See has confirmed that tomorrow, Sunday, October 18, Leo XIV will appear at the window of his study in the Apostolic Palace to lead the Angelus prayer before the pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, barely 24 hours after leaving the hospital.