Wojciech Rogacin, Artur Hanula
On Saturday morning, doctors overseeing the Pope’s treatment at the Gemelli Clinic announced that he would be leaving the hospital today.
The Holy See Press Office issued a statement:
“Dr. Luigi Carbone and Prof. Stefano Margaritora provide the following information regarding the Pope’s recovery after surgery: Based on the results of blood tests, a chest X-ray performed this morning, and an assessment of his clinical condition, it was determined that the Holy Father can be discharged from the hospital.”
Before leaving the Clinic at 12:00 PM, Leo XIV celebrated Holy Mass in a specially prepared room on the tenth floor.
Everyone was waiting for this moment
The faithful had been waiting for the Pope since the early afternoon. They included patients, believers, journalists, photographers, and media workers.
According to the Holy See Press Office, upon leaving the Clinic, the Holy Father thanked Prof. Stefano Margaritora, who performed the surgery, as well as the team of doctors and nurses, greeted the medical staff, Prof. Elena Beccalli, Rector of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, and the management of the Agostino Gemelli University Policlinic.
Leo XIV also took a moment to speak with a Ukrainian girl, Varvara, whom he met on December 31 of last year in St. Peter’s Square. At the time, the girl was soon to undergo surgery for cancer. The Pope hugged her and encouraged her. Today, Varvara is healthy and has come from Turin to personally say goodbye to the Holy Father.
Angelus from the Palace Windows
In connection with the Holy Father’s return to the Vatican on Sunday, October 18, the Pope will lead the Angelus prayer from the window of the papal apartment.
