Pope Leo XIV will forgo a scheduled visit to Assisi next week as he continues to recover from recent thoracic surgery, the Vatican announced on Friday. The 71-year-old pontiff had planned to attend a commemoration on Tuesday marking the 40th anniversary of St. John Paul II’s World Day of Prayer for Peace, but doctors advised against travel by helicopter to facilitate his recuperation.

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo underwent surgery last week to remove a portion of his lung after being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Following the operation, medical evaluations confirmed the cancer was localized and no further treatment would be necessary. A follow-up chest X-ray indicated the pope is healing well, however, physicians recommended postponing air travel as a precaution given the short time since the procedure.

Instead of attending the Assisi event in person, which is titled “Disarmed and Disarming Peace,” the pope plans to send a message to organizers, Christian and other faith leaders, and participants. The gathering commemorates the groundbreaking 1986 interfaith peace meeting initiated by St. John Paul II, emphasizing dialogue and efforts toward reconciliation amid ongoing global conflicts. The Vatican said Pope Leo wished to convey his solidarity with attendees and underscore the enduring importance of Assisi’s spirit of peace.

This cancellation marks the latest alteration to the pope’s schedule since the surgery last week, the first major health episode of his pontificate, now in its 17th month. The Vatican has stated that all of Pope Leo’s activities will be governed by medical guidance during his recovery period.

Pope Leo returned to the Vatican last Saturday. His surgeon indicated there are no medical contraindications to a planned trip to Latin America in early November, which includes stops in Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. The itinerary involves approximately a dozen flights and two helicopter transfers to elevated locations. Thoracic surgeons generally advise against flying for three weeks following such procedures, suggesting the pope’s travel will align with the recommended recovery timeframe if his condition remains stable.

Since resuming public appearances, Pope Leo has demonstrated strong health, speaking clearly and confidently, according to observers. The Vatican continues to monitor his progress closely as he prepares for his upcoming international visit.