OMM Newsroom
According to AnewZ, Pope Leo XIV has begun a 12-day trip to South America, weeks after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. He will visit Argentina, Peru and Uruguay.
The 71-year-old pope departed from Fiumicino Airport near Rome on the morning of Friday, Nov. 6. He is expected to arrive in Uruguay that afternoon. The trip runs through Nov. 17, with 10 cities and 36 engagements on the itinerary.
The Vatican said the pope had fully recovered from surgery in October for lung adenocarcinoma. His doctors said the disease was localized and no further treatment was needed. Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said no additional medical arrangements would be made during the trip.
Independent medical experts said the pope’s clearance to fly indicated a low risk of complications. They also noted that, because of the altitude in Peru’s Andes, he may need rest breaks and possibly supplemental oxygen.
On his doctors’ advice, Leo canceled a planned visit to the central Italian city of Assisi on Oct. 27. He became a Peruvian citizen in 2015. Bruni described the trip as a “homecoming.” Leo served for many years as an Augustinian missionary in Peru before becoming bishop of Chiclayo.
Millions expected to attend events in Argentina
The pope will also spend three days in Argentina. Pope Francis, the first pope elected from the Americas, did not visit Argentina during his pontificate. Argentine officials expect about seven million people to attend events involving Leo.
On Nov. 8, the pope will address Argentine President Javier Milei. The right-wing libertarian politician is considered a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump criticized Leo earlier this year after the pope denounced the war in Iran.
Bruni said the pope’s speeches will focus on environmental destruction, arms smuggling and political instability in the region. Leo will visit a prison in Argentina and meet people affected by sexual abuse by clergy.
Latin America is home to the world’s largest Catholic population. However, the Church is losing ground to rapidly growing evangelical denominations and struggling to adapt to changing social attitudes. Abuse scandals have also damaged its standing.
Speaking in St. Peter’s Square on Nov. 4, Leo said he hoped the trip would “strengthen faith, renew hope and rekindle the flame of charity.”
