Pope Leo XIV leaves hospital after lung surgery and returns to the Vatican

After being hospitalized for lung surgery, Pope Leo XIV left the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome.

Accompanied by doctors, the Holy Father walked out of the hospital, where many faithful had gathered to await him. He greeted those present and spoke with them briefly before getting into a car and setting off for the Vatican.

Doctors had earlier confirmed that the Pope was well enough to leave the hospital. According to the announcement, on Sunday, October 18, he will recite the Angelus prayer as usual from the Apostolic Palace.

Before leaving, at Gemelli’s main entrance, the Pope met a young Ukrainian patient who is being treated for cancer and was accompanied by family members. They exchanged greetings and words of support, having gone through similar health experiences. The head of the Catholic Church encouraged the girl and blessed her.

Vatican sources said that before leaving the Gemelli Polyclinic, Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass at 12:00 in a special room on the tenth floor. Afterward, he completed the discharge procedures and set off for the Vatican.