Despite rain and bad weather in Rome, around 30,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to welcome Pope Leo XIV, who led his first general audience since undergoing lung surgery. The Holy Father thanked the faithful for their prayers and support, while announcing his gradual return to his commitments.
Smiling and in good spirits, Pope Leo XIV returned to St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, crossing the square in the white popemobile and greeting the pilgrims gathered to receive him.
According to data published by the Vatican press office, around 30,000 faithful, including cardinals and bishops, took part in the general audience.
While crossing the square, the Pope paused in particular near children, whom he blessed, and was greeted with applause from those present.
“The first thing I want to tell you is thank you for your support through your prayers. We thank God for his generosity. Let us renew all our faith in the goodness and mercy of God,” Leo XIV said at the opening of the audience.
The Holy Father, 71, underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma.
After leaving Gemelli Hospital in Rome, the Pope had announced that he would gradually return to his commitments. Wednesday’s audience was the first since October 7 and took place according to the usual schedule.