Pope Leo Confirms South American Tour

The Vatican confirmed on Friday that Pope Leo will proceed with his planned tour of South America following his recent lung surgery.

The 71-year-old pope is scheduled to travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to November 17. He will visit ten cities in total, adhering to the original itinerary. The trip will begin in Montevideo, Uruguay, on November 8, before moving to Argentina from November 11 to 17. The final leg of the journey will take place in Peru, where the pope will spend six days visiting Lima, Chiclayo, Cuzco, and Pucallpa.

Pope Leo announced his recovery on October 11, telling a crowd in St. Peter's Square that doctors had found a nodule on his lung. He described the growth as well-contained and caught at an early stage. The surgery, performed on October 13 at Rome's Gemelli hospital, lasted 90 minutes to remove a tumor from the lower part of his right lung. Tests indicated the cancer was localized. He was discharged from the hospital on October 17.

Surgeon Stefano Margaritora stated that the pope is in an absolutely satisfactory clinical condition. He said there were no clinical reasons to halt the trip. The Vatican noted that Leo is adjusting his daily schedule with his doctors to prioritize recovery while fulfilling his ministerial duties. Leo said he looks forward to returning to the continent with great joy and enthusiasm. He noted that he has experienced many life moments there.

The pope has strong historical ties to Peru, where he holds citizenship. He was sent to the country as a missionary in 1985 at age 30. He joined the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas and later in Trujillo. He worked between the United States and Peru for nearly three decades. Cardinal Ricardo Alarcón, the Archbishop of Lima, said the trip will include young people, women who run community kitchens, and indigenous community members. He also highlighted the pope's close connection to Chiclayo, where Leo lived for several years.

Approximately 76 percent of Peru's population identifies as Catholic. The Vatican announced that Leo will cancel a planned visit to Assisi on October 27 on the recommendation of his doctors. He remains in Rome, resting and gradually resuming his work. The pope expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and affection received from around the world.