VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV is set to move forward with his scheduled pastoral trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17. The Vatican confirmed on Monday, October 26, that medical clearances give the pontiff the green light to travel just weeks after undergoing lung cancer surgery.
The Vatican press office reported that the pope’s recovery is progressing favorably under the watchful eye of his medical team, and the ambitious travel itinerary remains unchanged.
Surgeons performed an operation on October 13 to remove a lobe containing a malignant adenocarcinoma nodule—marking the first major health hurdle of Leo’s 17-month pontificate.
Since returning to the Vatican, Leo has slowly eased back into his daily duties while building in necessary rest periods. His physician, Luigi Carbone, assured that no medical roadblocks stand in the way of the South American journey, which features roughly a dozen flights and two helicopter trips to high-altitude destinations.
Deeply appreciative of the global outpouring of prayers during his recovery, the pope shared his excitement about returning to a region that holds profound personal significance.
“I am looking forward to returning to the continent where I’ve experienced so many moments of my life,” Pope Leo stated on Monday, adding: “May this journey be an occasion for us to open our hearts to one another, strengthen our communion as brothers and sisters, and renew our commitment to proclaiming the Gospel with joy.”
According to the Vatican, the upcoming international visit aims to reinforce ties with local congregations, uplift the faithful, and spread messages of faith, hope, and peace throughout Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru.