In brief
Pope Leo XIV, 71, successfully removed a tumour from his lung and will still visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from 6‑17 November. The Vatican confirmed the plan, with the Pope expressing enthusiasm for the journey. His itinerary covers 10 cities, including Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Lima, Chiclayo and Cuzco, visiting communities that champion sustainable practices. The Pope’s presence will highlight the Church’s climate initiatives such as Laudato Si’ and support to indigenous and young people in eco‑innovation. After an early‑stage, localised diagnosis, the Pope remains a symbol of resilience and continuity for environmental actions worldwide.
Pope Leo XIV’s South‑American Tour Continues After Surgery
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will carry out his South‑American visit as scheduled, following a successful lung‑cancer operation that removed a tumour from the lower right lung.
The 71‑year‑old, whose health was publicly updated during a Sunday prayer, expressed great joy and enthusiasm for the trip, citing his deep connection to the continent and commitment to its people.
The itinerary covers 10 cities from 6‑17 November, beginning in Uruguay on 8 November with stops in Montevideo and other significant urban centers that support sustainable infrastructure and community‑led renewable projects.
From 11‑17 November the Pope will travel through Argentina, visiting Buenos Aires and surrounding areas where faith groups collaborate on water‑conservation campaigns and low‑carbon mobility initiatives.
His six‑day stay in Peru will include Lima, Chiclayo, Cuzco and Pucallpa. The Peruvian Archbishop Cardinal Castillo highlighted that the Pope will meet young people, women running community kitchens and indigenous groups driving forest‑preservation efforts.
His early‑stage, localised tumour was removed in a 90‑minute operation at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, and post‑surgery tests confirmed the cancer was self‑contained. The Pope has continued to balance recovery with his clerical duties, adjusting his schedule to prioritize health while leading global Church initiatives.
Pope Leo XIV’s presence in South‑America will reinforce the Church’s message on ecological responsibility, echoing the spirit of the encyclical Laudato Si’ and the Catholic commitment to protect the planet for future generations.
