Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass at Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Friday, marking a significant step in his recovery from lung cancer surgery. The Vatican released images of the pontiff leading the service, which was attended by off-duty medical staff and members of the Vatican City State's Gendarmerie Corps.
In a medical update, the Pope's personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, and the head of thoracic surgery at Gemelli, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, said his post-operative recovery is allowing him to carry out his normal daily activities entirely on his own. The statement was signed by both doctors and released by the Vatican.
During the homily, Pope Leo expressed gratitude to hospital workers for their daily care of patients, and specifically for the care he has received. The service took place at noon, with the Pope appearing alongside his secretary.
Pope's appeal on food as a 'obligation of justice'
In a separate message marking World Food Day, the Pope addressed the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), warning against the use of food as a weapon of war. He called on governments to redirect military spending toward sustainable agriculture, arguing that hunger is largely a result of a lack of political will and collective solidarity.
“It is an obligation of justice that binds both individual states and the international community,” the Pope said, emphasizing the need to guarantee universal access to safe and sufficient food.
The appeal comes as conflicts in various regions continue to disrupt food supplies, and the Pope's words carry particular weight given his recent health challenges. His message aligns with broader European efforts to address food security, a topic that has gained urgency across the continent.
What lies ahead for the pontificate
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said it is too early to predict when the Pope will resume his full duties. Speaking on Thursday, Parolin noted that the pontificate may need to be adjusted depending on the Pope's recovery and medical advice.
“We can’t make any type of predictions,” Parolin said, as reported by Italian news agencies LaPresse and ANSA. “The question now is when he will return, under what circumstances he will return, and what the doctors say. And based on all these factors, the pope will then adjust his pontificate, if it needs to be adjusted.”
The Pope's hospitalization has drawn attention across Europe, with many Catholics and observers following his progress. The Vatican has been cautious in its communications, releasing regular updates but avoiding speculation about a timeline for a full return to public life.
As the Pope continues his recovery, the Vatican's daily operations remain under the guidance of Cardinal Parolin and other senior officials. The pontiff's ability to celebrate Mass, even in a hospital setting, is seen as a positive sign by many within the Church.
For now, the focus remains on the Pope's health and the gradual resumption of his activities. The Vatican has not announced any public appearances beyond the hospital setting, and further updates are expected as his recovery progresses.
