Pope Leo XIV returns to St. Peter’s Square following hospitalization

Pope Leo XIV made his first public appearance following his discharge from hospital on Sunday, October 18, 2026, greeting and blessing the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

The Pope, who was discharged from Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Saturday afternoon, thanked those present for their support during his hospitalization.

“I felt your support. It was a critical period. I am now gradually resuming my activities, with God’s help and your prayers,” he said.

Pope Leo also spoke about his recent health difficulties, saying the experience had made him feel particularly close to people facing serious medical conditions.

He again expressed his gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Gemelli Hospital for their care.

According to media reports, the Pope hopes to proceed with his scheduled visit to Latin America from November 6 to 17.

However, a final decision on the trip will depend on the advice of the medical team responsible for the surgery he underwent last Tuesday.