VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV will skip his upcoming trip to Assisi next week under doctors’ orders as he continues to recuperate from thoracic surgery, the Vatican announced on Friday.
The 71-year-old pontiff had been scheduled to travel to Assisi for an October 27 interfaith gathering commemorating the 40th anniversary of St. John Paul II’s historic World Day of Prayer for Peace. The event, titled “Disarmed and Disarming Peace,” brings together Christian and other religious leaders.
According to a statement released by the Vatican, the pope was advised against traveling “to facilitate his recovery” following the operation performed last Tuesday. Instead of attending in person, Pope Leo will deliver a message to the organizers and participants.
The Vatican noted that the pontiff intends to express his solidarity with the attendees and underscore that the “spirit of Assisi,” dialogue, and the ongoing quest for peace remain vital tools during times of global conflict.
This scheduling adjustment is the latest modification to the pope’s itinerary following his surgery last week, during which he had a portion of one lung removed after being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of lung cancer.
On Wednesday, the Vatican shared encouraging news that the cancer was localized, meaning Pope Leo will require no further treatment.
The Vatican reiterated that the pope’s public engagements and activities will continue to be managed in accordance with medical advice throughout his convalescence.