"It fills me with joy to return to the continent where I have lived through so many moments of my life," Pope Leo XIV wrote on his X account on Oct. 26, confirming his upcoming trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, which will take place in November.
"May this journey be an opportunity to open our hearts to one another, strengthen our communion as brothers and sisters, and renew our commitment to proclaiming the Gospel with joy," the Holy Father wrote, nearly two weeks after undergoing lung surgery on Oct. 13.
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In addition, an Oct. 26 Vatican statement indicated that "Based on his current clinical status, as well as the results of the diagnostic tests and laboratory analyses performed, there are no contraindications that would prevent him from undertaking his upcoming apostolic journey to Latin America as planned."
"The Pope is following medical recommendations with great care and diligence, and with a deep determination to continue serving the Church," it added.
"In this respect, the Holy See Press Office confirms that the Apostolic Journey of Pope Leo XIV to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, scheduled for November 6-17, 2026, will proceed according to the program previously published," the Vatican statement said.
"The Holy Father remains deeply grateful for the prayers and affection he has received from throughout the world and for the dedicated care of the medical professionals who have accompanied him during his recovery," the statement said.
"Dr. Luigi Carbone confirms that the Holy Father's recovery after the surgery continues, and the latest medical examinations attest to his good health," the Vatican added.
"As previously reported, the surgical procedure was successful and without complications. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed that the condition was localized and that no further oncological treatment is necessary," the Vatican stated.
