Pope Leo XIV Begins Latin America Tour, Declares Himself in Good Health After Surgery

Pope Leo XIV has offered reassuring words about his physical condition as he embarks on an ambitious 12-day tour across Latin America. Speaking to reporters aboard his flight, the 71-year-old pontiff stated that he is in “pretty good health” and “very happy” to undertake the journey, which comes merely three weeks after he underwent surgery for lung cancer.

The international trip initially faced uncertainty last month when routine medical scans uncovered a tumor. However, successful surgery and subsequent confirmation from medical staff that the cancer had not spread cleared the way for the voyage. Reflecting on the ordeal, the Pope admitted he never doubted the journey would proceed as planned, crediting his recovery to his medical team.

The tour kicked off in Uruguay, where enthusiastic crowds lined the seafront to catch a glimpse of the Popemobile in Montevideo. During his opening address at Plaza Independencia, the pontiff pivoted to the topic of public health, advocating that universal healthcare ought to remain accessible to everyone. He noted that his personal medical experience brought to mind the countless individuals globally who struggle to secure timely diagnoses or proper medical treatment.

Following his engagements in Uruguay, which included a prayer service at the Montevideo Cathedral, the Pope’s itinerary spans over 20,000 miles on his sixth international outing. Upcoming stops include Argentina—the native country of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who never returned during his papacy—and a much-anticipated homecoming in Peru, where Pope Leo previously served for years as a missionary and bishop. Emphasizing the purpose of the voyage, the pontiff stated his desire to remain close to communities seeking a message of hope.

Read the original report on Nile Post.