Pope Leo XIV in first photo after surgery, presides over Mass at hospital

Pope Leo XIV presided over his first Mass since being admitted to hospital today at 12:00 p.m. The Vatican said the celebration was held in a dedicated room on the tenth floor of Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic, where the Holy Father is recovering from surgery performed on Tuesday.

Doctors, nurses and other hospital staff who were off duty at the time attended the ceremony, along with members of the Vatican City State Gendarmerie.

In his homily, the Pope expressed his gratitude to healthcare workers for the care they provide to the sick every day and for their dedication to people in fragile health. He offered special thanks to the doctors, nurses and other staff who have cared for him in recent days.

The latest medical bulletin describes a continued improvement in his overall condition. His recovery was also confirmed by blood tests and a chest X-ray performed on Friday morning.

The Holy Father continues respiratory physiotherapy and, thanks to his recovery from surgery, can now carry out his usual daily activities on his own. This information was provided by Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora, the doctors overseeing his health.

The Vatican Press Office has also confirmed that the Angelus prayer will take place. On Sunday, a week after the unexpected announcement about his health, the Pope is expected to continue the tradition of the weekly prayer, but its location and format have not yet been made public.

According to the Vatican Press Office, the Pope is in good spirits and has continued to work during his hospital stay. It remains unclear whether Leo XIV will leave Gemelli Polyclinic on Saturday or in the following days.

Vatican sources have clarified that the doctors’ initial seven-day recovery period still stands for now, while his progress will be assessed in the days ahead.