The flight to Montevideo helped put to rest questions about whether Pope Leo XIV could make a 12-day journey just three weeks after lung surgery.
The Pope said he had never doubted the trip would go ahead. He thanked God and the medical team traveling with him.
On October 13, surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung after diagnosing a localized adenocarcinoma. His doctors later confirmed that he needed no further treatment and could travel.
The Pontiff said he was feeling “quite well” and was especially happy to return to Latin America, particularly Peru. After spending years there as a missionary and bishop, he considers the country one of his many homes.
Leo XIV also officially introduced Montserrat Alvarado to the nearly 80 journalists traveling with him. She took over as head of the Dicastery for Communication on November 1, succeeding Paolo Ruffini.
POPE LEO XIV
I confess that from the first day, I had no doubt and was convinced that this trip had to go forward.And very happy to say, praise the Lord, and thanks to wonderful medical assistance. I'm here today, I think, in fairly good shape. So you're the witnesses of that, and I'm happy that you're joining us.I would also like to take the opportunity to present someone that many of you already know, but the new prefect.For the Vatican Dicastery for Communications, Dr. Monse Monserrat Alvarado, who has joined.The Vatican team, the Holy See, taking on this challenging role as prefect of communications, taking the role of Dr. Paolo Ruffini, who has completed his term of service, and so now we have the wonderful experience, the creativity, and the life and liveliness of. Monse, who will be accompanying us on this trip and helping the Vatican and myself in the very important dimension of communications. So, welcome, Monse.
