Calbayog diocese calls for prayers for successful surgery, speedy recovery of Pope Leo XIV

The Diocese of Calbayog has called on the people to pray for the successful surgery and speedy recovery of Pope Leo XIV, who will undergo surgery to remove a nodule in his lung.

"Let us unite in prayer for Pope Leo XIV, who has announced that he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a small, localized nodule in his lung, discovered during recent medical examinations. The nodule was detected at a very early stage, and the Holy Father has decided to follow his doctors’ recommendation for surgical removal," the diocese led by Bishop Isabelo Abarquez.

"May the Lord guide the hands of his doctors, grant him a successful surgery, and bless him with strength, healing, and a speedy recovery."

Earlier, Reuters reported that Pope Leo announced that doctors had detected a small growth on his lung during a recent health check and he would be undergoing surgery this week to remove it, in the first health scare of the 71-year-old pontiff's tenure.

Leo told pilgrims in St. Peter's Square for his weekly Sunday prayer that the growth was "well-contained" and had been spotted early.

The Vatican did not say whether the nodule is believed to be malignant.

In Calbayog, they assured the Pontiff of their prayers.

"Through the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may our Holy Father be comforted and sustained by our prayers and the love of the faithful throughout the world. We pray for you, Holy Father!"

“Lord, hear our prayer and grant our Holy Father a swift and complete recovery.” — BAP, GMA News