CHICAGO () — Worshippers at Holy Name Cathedral used Sunday Mass to pray for Pope Leo after learning that he is expected to undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a nodule from his lung.
The pope’s planned medical procedure prompted a special moment of prayer as Chicago Catholics reflected on his health and upcoming surgery.
“We’re hopeful and so is all of Chicago… And personally, we have a great affection for him, so we pray for him as all people all throughout the world are keeping him in our prayers,” one worshipper said during Mass.
Pope Leo spoke publicly about the procedure in a statement posted on social media Sunday morning.
“The doctors believe that it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it,” the pope said. “The operation is already scheduled to take place in the coming days. I thank you for your spiritual closeness and entrust myself to your prayers.”
Samuel Kim, a professor of surgery at Northwestern Medicine, said he remains optimistic about the pope’s prognosis.
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“Even at an advanced age, I know the pope is in his 70s, but he’s in very good health and active. The pope should be able to have the operation pretty well and recover. So, I’m very optimistic about the prognosis for our pope,” Kim said.
Parishioners attending Mass at Holy Name Cathedral said they were concerned about Pope Leo’s health but remained focused on offering support and prayers for his recovery.
“Very concerned. The lungs are a serious issue. He’s not a young man. We love him… We’re sending our love to him from Chicago,” said Lawrence Ligas, who attended Mass.
“Our hearts are just broken. We’re really just saying prayers for Pope Leo. Wish him all the best and a healthy recovery,” said Catie Curran, another Mass attendee.
With Pope Leo preparing for surgery, parishioners at Holy Name Cathedral said they will continue to keep him in their prayers.
