Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery for lung cancer on Tuesday, drawing prayers from world leaders. The Vatican said the 90-minute procedure successfully removed part of his right lung. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "Pope Leo XIV is a source of inspiration to Catholics right around the world." Get well soon.
The pontiff's illness also prompted calls for people to seek medical treatment and early cancer screenings.
Political and religious leaders responded with prayers and messages of support after the Vatican's announcement on Tuesday that Pope Leo XIV had undergone surgery for lung cancer.
The U.N. secretary general, António Guterres, wished the pope a speedy recovery and said on social media that his thoughts and prayers were with him and "the Catholic community worldwide."
The Vatican said the 90-minute procedure had successfully removed part of the pope's right lung. The Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese, a Catholic, said his thoughts and prayers were with the spiritual leader as he recovers.
"Pope Leo XIV is a source of inspiration to Catholics right around the world," Mr. Albanese wrote on social media. "He is a voice for peace, humanity and reason in our modern world."
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is also Catholic, said that he and his wife were praying for the pope. "May the Lord give him strength and the Holy Spirit guide the medical professionals taking care of the Holy Father," he wrote.
Some said the pope's illness should be a reminder to pray for others who have cancer or to get screenings themselves. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops urged people to pray not only for the pope but also for his caregivers.
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