Community Rallies for Pope Leo XIV’s Recovery Amid Cancer Diagnosis

Over a hundred worshippers at Holy Name Cathedral gathered on Wednesday to pray for Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native, after his recent lung cancer diagnosis. The Rev. Louis Cameli led the Mass, dedicating it to the Pope’s health. He prayed, “We humbly entreat you, Lord… as you have entrusted Leo with the office of shepherd, grant him always salvation and protection, together with the flock entrusted to his care.” Across Chicago, Catholics united in prayer for his recovery after surgery to remove the lower section of his right lung revealed adenocarcinoma.

Carmen Daley, a 72-year-old attendee of the Mass, emphasized the importance of the Pope’s leadership in the current times and hoped for his speedy recovery. “We need him more than ever,” she stated. Rev. Cameli highlighted Pope Leo XIV’s significant role not only within the Catholic Church but globally.

Encouraging news emerged as doctors reported that Pope Leo XIV was up, walking again, and resuming his normal diet while undergoing respiratory exercises. Two physicians confirmed his recovery process was on track, with supportive chest X-rays and blood tests. The Rev. John Lydon, a close friend of the Pope since their missionary days in Peru in the 1990s, shared his concern yet remained hopeful due to the positive prognosis provided by doctors.

Lydon is in Rome for a conference that was initially scheduled for the Pope, who had subtly mentioned his surgery in recent remarks. It was not until a diagnosis was confirmed that Lydon and other attendees fully grasped the seriousness of the situation, experiencing a mix of concern and hope.

Though lung cancer poses significant challenges worldwide, early detection is key, offering optimism for treatment success as seen in Pope Leo XIV’s case. His active lifestyle, including tennis and regular exercise, aligns with his otherwise good health.

Cardinal Blase Cupich spotlighted the Pope’s Chicago roots, requesting prayers for his recovery: “People of good will everywhere, but particularly here, in Pope Leo’s hometown, join me in asking the Lord to return this son of Chicago to wellness.” He highlighted the Pope’s ongoing potential for impactful work.

The Chicago community celebrated when Leo XIV became the first American to be elected Pope in May 2025. Since then, various local leaders and groups have enjoyed meetings with him, including Gov. JB Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, and a group of students from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy, who recently sent a supportive care package.

The Pope’s schedule is cleared through October 20 to allow for recuperation after surgery. A group of clergy and religious leaders planning to visit him later this month anticipate no change in their advocacy plans.

The Chicago-based Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership recognized the Pope’s commitment to human dignity, acknowledging the increased appreciation for his leadership following the diagnosis. Vatican leaders in town for a conference visited his childhood home to pray during the surgery, reflecting on his life’s impact.

Joe Boland from the Chicago-based Catholic Extension Society recounted his experience visiting the Pope in May, sharing his gratitude for Leo XIV’s ties to Chicago and his global ministry impact. His connection to Chicago provides unique insights into his leadership.

The Associated Press contributed to this information.