Pope begins lengthy trip to Latin America weeks after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo XIV embarked on an extensive journey throughout Latin America, just three weeks following his lung cancer surgery. The pilgrimage encompasses a significant "homecoming" to Peru, a place he once served as a priest for many years. The Vatican maintained that the Pope is currently a healthy 71-year-old who has undergone surgery, not someone with a permanent medical condition.

The Pope disclosed the cancer diagnosis last month after a routine scan revealed a tumor, which was successfully removed along with the lower lobe of his right lung, ensuring no spread of the cancer.

The 12-day tour includes stops in Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, traversing thousands of miles from the Amazon to the Andes. Uruguay, the tour's starting point, has seen a steep decline in its Catholic population and is receiving its first papal visit in four decades. Argentina, the homeland of Pope Francis, is another crucial destination, reflecting a gesture of respect to his predecessor.

The Pope's schedule is packed with meetings with heads of state and religious events, emphasizing his robust health and enthusiasm for the trip.

The most politically charged aspect of the journey may be in Argentina, where former President Javier Milei once referred to Pope Francis as "evil" and a "communist." Despite this, Milei looked forward to Pope Leo's visit, expressing immense joy. The climax of the trip is expected to be in Peru, where the Pope will return to his roots, visiting the diocese of Chiclayo, his place of ordination, and engaging with survivors of clerical sexual abuse—an issue that was a concern during his predecessor's visit.