The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) joins the faithful across Canada and around the world in praying for the swift and complete recovery of Pope Leo XIV following his surgery on October 13, 2026.
According to a medical statement released by the Holy See Press Office, the procedure involved the removal of the lower lobe of the Holy Father’s right lung. Tissue examination during the surgery confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. The operation was completed successfully and without complications.
On behalf of the Canadian episcopate, CCCB President, the Most Reverend Pierre Goudreault, has sent a letter to the Holy Father assuring him of the prayers and spiritual closeness of the Church in Canada. The letter also entrusts the Pope to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph and requests his Apostolic Blessing (read the letter: https://www.cccb.ca/letter/letter-to-the-holy-father-following-his-surgery/)
The Bishops of Canada express their affection and spiritual solidarity with Pope Leo XIV, while offering their gratitude to the medical team caring for him.
Recalling the Holy Father’s message for the 34th World Day of the Sick, the bishops entrust Pope Leo XIV and all those experiencing illness to the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Health of the Sick. They pray that all who suffer may receive the care, compassion and comfort they need, and that those who accompany them may be strengthened in their service.
The Archdiocese of Grouard-McLennan joins the Church in Canada and the universal Church in prayer for the Holy Father’s recovery and well-being.
We invite the faithful to join in the prayer offered by the Holy Father himself in that message:
Sweet Mother, do not part from me.
Turn not your eyes away from me.
Walk with me at every moment
and never leave me alone.
You who always protect me
as a true Mother,
obtain for me the blessing of the Father,
Son and Holy Spirit.