Angelus, 18 October 2026

Pope Leo XIV returned to the window of the Apostolic Palace on October 18 to lead the Angelus prayer, marking his first public appearance since undergoing lung cancer surgery. Addressing thousands of people in Saint Peter's Square, the pope thanked the faithful for their prayers and expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Gemelli Hospital.

The 71-year-old pope underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. He was discharged from the hospital on October 17, one day earlier than medical officials had originally expected. During the address, he noted that the experience made him feel a special closeness to those facing illness or infirmity. He stated that he intends to gradually resume his activities with the help of God and the prayers of the faithful.

Before the prayer, the pope shared a reflection on the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the teaching to give to the emperor what belongs to the emperor and to God what belongs to God. He noted that Jesus' response to the Pharisees showed a God who dwells within history without abolishing human roles and responsibilities.