Vatican

Pope Leo returns to Vatican four days after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo had an operation on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, and will hold his first public engagement since surgery on Sunday.

Pope Leo leaves Gemelli Hospital following his lung surgery and cancer diagnosis, in Rome, Italy, October 17, 2026.
 Pope Leo XIV speaks as he attends a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in Luanda, Angola, April 18, 2026.

Pope Leo had lobe of lung removed as doctors found cancer, Vatican says

Pope Leo celebrates Mass marking the start of the academic year at the Pontifical Universities in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, October 8, 2026.

Pope Leo announces upcoming surgery for small growth on lung

VATICAN AMBASSADOR to Israel Archbishop Giorgio Lingua (center) and the delegation, together with Isaac Molcho and Yasha Grobman of the Israel Museum.

Vatican ambassador visits Israel Museum’s archaeology wing


Pope Francis dies at 88 after long battle with respiratory illness

Francis, originally from Argentina, was the first Catholic pontiff from the Americas and began his career as a Jesuit priest in Argentina.

 Pope Francis. Vatican announces new guidelines allowing gay men to become priests in Italy under vow of celibacy.

Pope Francis calls for Gaza ceasefire during Easter appearance

"I appeal to the warring parties: Call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace," the Pope's Easter message said.

 Pope Francis speaks from a balcony on the day of the "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and to the world) message, at St. Peter's Square, on Easter Sunday, in the Vatican, April 20, 2025.

Pope Francis thanks doctors who saved his life in meeting at Vatican

The 88-year-old pontiff is gradually making more public appearances as he recovers from the biggest health crisis in his 12 years in the role.

 Pope Francis gestures during his first public appearance in five weeks, on the day of his discharge from Gemelli Hospital, in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2025.

Britain's King Charles makes surprise visit to Pope Francis at Vatican

King Charles and Queen Camilla had been due to make a formal state visit to the Vatican, but postponed their plans after doctors prescribed Francis two months of rest.

 Pope Francis. Vatican announces new guidelines allowing gay men to become priests in Italy under vow of celibacy.

Pope Francis was so close to death that doctors considered ending treatment

The pope's official nurse pleaded with doctors to ensure that they did not stop his treatment despite significant risks.

 Pope Francis gestures during his first public appearance in five weeks, on the day of his discharge from Gemelli Hospital, in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2025.

Rediscovered Renaissance masterpiece to be exhibited at Vatican Museums

The artwork, believed to be the original work of Mantegna, was recently rediscovered in the Sanctuary of Pompeii.


Vatican displays ‘The Spear of Destiny’ during Lent at St. Peter's Basilica

Tradition recounts that Longinus, a Roman centurion, pierced the side of Jesus with this very spear during the crucifixion.

 Statue of Jesus and Saint Longinus, the Roman soldier who pierced Christ in his side with a lance, in the Cathedral of Leon, Spain.

Pope Francis, showing plans to continue on, starts new process for Catholic reforms

Pope Francis approved a new three-year Vatican reform plan, pushing forward with change despite his ongoing health battle.

 Pope Francis looks on from a balcony, on the day he delivers his "Urbi et Orbi" (To the city and the world) message at St. Peter's Square, on Easter Sunday, at the Vatican March 31, 2024.

Ancient Syriac text reveals lost Gospel details after 1,500 years

The Old Syriac text specifies disciples 'rubbing it in their hands,' highlighting significant nuances in interpretation.

 Ancient Syriac text reveals lost Gospel details after 1,500 years

Pope Francis no longer needs ventilation, is stable, Vatican says

Vatican says Pope Francis's health is improving but he remains under close watching Rome's Gemelli hospital.

 Balloons with an image of Pope Francis float outside Gemelli Hospital, as he is admitted for treatment, in Rome, Italy, March 2, 2025.