World Church · October 26, 2026
Pope cancels visit to Assisi due to recovery
On October 23, doctors reported on the post-operative recovery of the Pope. "The Pope underwent a chest X-ray as part of his post-operative observation. The results confirmed that his recovery is going well." However, the attending physicians stated, "Considering that it is still early after the surgery, we have deemed it appropriate to advise against the planned helicopter trip on October 27 as a precaution."
On the same day, the Vatican's press office announced to reporters that Pope Leo XIV, who underwent chest surgery the previous Tuesday, would not be able to attend the gathering taking place in Assisi on October 27, following medical advice to promote recovery.
This gathering, themed "Peace without Arms, Disarmament for Peace," marks the 40th anniversary of the world peace prayer gathering held by Saint John Paul II in Assisi with leaders of various religions on October 27, 1986. The event will take place in Assisi from October 25 to 27. Pope Leo XIV was scheduled to visit Assisi on the final day, October 27, to pray for peace with believers and representatives of various religions. The Vatican's statement emphasized that, in a time of ongoing conflict, the spirit of Assisi, seeking dialogue and words and actions that bring peace, is a valuable asset.