Why We Should Pray for Pope Leo XIV This Week
Please pray for Pope Leo XIV this week. On Sunday, October 11, 2026, he announced that he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a nodule from one of his lungs. He shared the news with the faithful in Saint Peter’s Square after the Angelus prayer. Moreover, he asked them to remember him in prayer. Therefore, Catholics around the world now have a clear way to respond. In addition, the Vatican says doctors found the nodule early.
Pope Leo spoke from the window of the Apostolic Palace. He said doctors found a localized nodule in his lung during some recent medical checks. Furthermore, he said, “It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized.” The doctors believe surgery is advisable. As a result, he decided to follow their advice. He added that the operation is already scheduled for the coming days.
The Pope thanked the faithful for their spiritual closeness and entrusted himself to their prayers. In other words, he asked us to carry him in prayer. Thus, every Catholic can play a part. A pope prays for millions of people every day. Now he asks millions to pray for him. He did not give further details about the exact date or the type of procedure.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni gave more information in a statement. He said the operation will take place in the first days of this week. In addition, the Vatican expects a recovery time of about one week. According to EWTN, the Pope will stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital during that time. Consequently, he will cancel all engagements in the coming days. However, officials have not yet announced an exact date.
Pope Leo is 71 years old. He was elected on May 8, 2025, and he is the first Pope born in the United States. Before this announcement, he had no publicly known health problems, and he stays physically active with weekly games of tennis. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered him her support. Likewise, many Catholics have begun to share messages of prayer for him.
The surgery also raises questions about his schedule. The Pope plans a major visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to 17. For now, EWTN reports that the surgery should not prevent the trip. However, NPR notes that it remains unclear whether the surgery will affect his travels. Therefore, we should wait for official updates from the Holy See Press Office.
The same Angelus also carried a message for the world, with an appeal for an end to the war in Ukraine and for the safe transport of grain across the Black Sea. Thus, even while sharing personal news, he kept his focus on those who suffer. This habit has marked his ministry since his election.
How can you pray for him? First, say one Hail Mary each day for the Pope. Next, offer a decade of the Rosary for his surgery and recovery, especially in this month of the Rosary. Then ask God to bless his doctors and nurses with skill and care. In addition, attend Mass for his intentions if you can. Finally, pray for all who face surgery this week. Prayer supports but never replaces medical care.
Here is a short prayer: Lord Jesus, bless Pope Leo and guide the hands of his doctors. Grant him strength, peace and a swift recovery. Keep him close to you and strengthen the Church he serves. Mary, Health of the Sick, pray for us. Amen.
For further reading, see reports from NPR, NBC News, EWTN Vatican and Rome Reports. In addition, you can read our earlier posts, Why Is October the Month of the Holy Rosary and Pope Leo XIV Calls Catholics to Pray the Rosary for Peace in October.
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