Christian World | The Holy See Press Office says Pope Leo XIV will skip the October 27 'Unarmed and Disarming Peace' meeting in Assisi to aid his recovery from lung surgery

ACW | October 23, 2026 — The Holy See Press Office said on Friday, October 23, that Pope Leo XIV will not attend the October 27 peace meeting in Assisi, Italy, to aid his recovery from lung surgery.

According to Vatican News, the Press Office said the Pope, "to aid his recovery following the thoracic surgery he underwent on Tuesday of last week," will be unable to attend the "Unarmed and Disarming Peace" meeting. He will instead send a message to its organisers, leaders and guests.

Vatican News reported that Dr Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora advised against the planned helicopter journey as a precaution, given how recently he had surgery. A follow-up chest X-ray confirmed that his recovery is progressing well.

The meeting is organised by the Community of Sant'Egidio in Assisi from October 25 to 27. According to Vatican News, about 384 representatives from 53 countries are expected across 24 thematic forums.

The Press Office added that the Pope remains convinced that the "Spirit of Assisi", dialogue and the search for words and gestures of peace are "valuable resources in an age of conflict".

Background: Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery on Tuesday, October 13, to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. According to Vatican News, doctors said all of the malignant tumour was removed and that no further treatment is necessary.

Why it matters: According to Vatican News, this year's meeting marks the 40th anniversary of the World Day of Prayer for Peace convened by Pope St John Paul II in Assisi in 1986. By sending a message, Pope Leo signals his support for interreligious dialogue for peace.

ACW will continue to follow this story.

Source: Vatican News (Holy See Press Office) — Pope Leo will not make Assisi visit to aid recovery after surgery

Photo: Vatican Media