VATICAN CITY - Pope Leo XIV has asked the faithful to pray for him after announcing that he will undergo surgery to remove a localized nodule in his lung.
The 71-year-old pontiff shared the news Sunday, Oct. 11, at the end of his Angelus address in St. Peter's Square. He said doctors discovered the nodule during recent medical tests, describing it as found "at a very early stage." He said he is following his doctors' advice and is entrusting himself to the prayers of the faithful.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the operation is scheduled for the first days of this week, with about one week of recovery expected. The pope is expected to be treated at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican has not said what type of surgery he will have. His engagements for the coming days are cancelled. The Vatican will operate as usual, though decisions needing his input or signature will be put on hold.
Medical experts note that finding a nodule on a scan does not confirm cancer, and the tissue will be examined after surgery.
Leo said he still plans to go. The surgery is not expected, at least for now, to prevent his planned South America trip in November, and he asked for prayers for his pastoral visit to Peru.
Church leaders, including Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, have asked Catholics to pray for the pope and his medical team. Christians of every tradition are joining that call.
