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South Americans Pray for Pope Leo's Recovery Amid Visit Uncertainty
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News18•15-10-2026, 00:30
South Americans Pray for Pope Leo's Recovery Amid Visit Uncertainty
- •Roman Catholics across South America are offering prayers and support following Pope Leo XIV's lung cancer diagnosis and subsequent surgery.
- •Uncertainty surrounds the pontiff's upcoming 12-day visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, which includes physically demanding stops and high altitudes in Cusco.
- •While the Vatican maintains the trip is still on schedule, leaders like Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori suggest his recovery could take several weeks and force itinerary changes.
- •Government officials and church leaders across the region have urged patience and prioritized the 71-year-old pope's health above the excitement of the historic visit.
- •Worshippers in Peru, where Leo spent 20 years as a missionary and bishop, have gathered in prayer, expressing deep affection and concern for his swift recovery.
Key Questions Answered
Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, after surgeons at Rome's Gemelli Hospital removed the lower lobe of his right lung.
The Vatican stated that the trip remains on his schedule while he recuperates, though Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori warned his recovery could take several weeks and potentially force itinerary changes.
The 12-day tour includes visits to secular Uruguay, predominantly Catholic Argentina, and Peru, which is Leo's adopted homeland where he spent 20 years as a missionary and bishop.
