Pope Leo heads back to the Vatican as well-wishers cheer, in photos

Pope Leo XIV has thanked the faithful in St. Peter’s Square for their prayers after his hospitalization for lung surgery. Speaking from a window overlooking the square, he said he would gradually resume his activities with God's help. The pontiff had a malignant tumor removed last week and expressed gratitude to the medical staff at Gemelli hospital. He said the experience made him feel closer to those facing illness. The 71-year-old pope is recovering well and plans to continue his duties, including a scheduled trip to South America in November. His surgeon sees no clinical reasons to cancel the trip.