Chicago Prays for Pope Leo XIV’s Recovery

At Holy Name Cathedral, a congregation of 100 worshippers bowed their heads in prayer for Chicago native Pope Leo XIV. This followed the recent diagnosis of his lung cancer. During the Mass, dedicated to the pontiff’s health, Rev. Louis Cameli prayed, “We humbly entreat you, Lord, as you have entrusted Leo with the office of shepherd, grant him always salvation and protection.” Across Chicago, Catholics offered every prayer for the pope’s recovery. Doctors had diagnosed him with adenocarcinoma, a common lung cancer form, following surgery on his right lung.

Carmen Daley, a 72-year-old parishioner at Holy Name, expressed the importance of the pope’s presence during these times, saying, “We need him more than ever in this moment we are living.” She prayed for his health and a swift recovery. Cameli noted that Pope Leo XIV is a significant figure not only for Catholics but globally.

Encouragement spread among the pope’s friends as doctors reported that Leo was walking, eating normally, and doing respiratory exercises. Tests indicated his recovery was progressing well. “Everyone is concerned,” said Rev. John Lydon, an old friend and former missionary partner, “but we follow the hopeful prognosis the doctors gave.” Lydon shared surprise over the diagnosis, mentioning the pope’s surgery talk had seemed understated. He learned of the illness while in Rome for a conference Leo intended to attend. He reflected on personal sadness mixed with optimism for the pope’s recovery.

The noon Mass at Holy Name Cathedral became a dedicated prayer session for Leo’s well-being. Despite lung cancer being the deadliest cancer, early detection can lead to treatable outcomes, as in Leo’s case. Lydon noted the pope’s active lifestyle, marked by tennis and frequent exercise.

Cardinal Blase Cupich asked for global prayers for Pope Leo XIV, particularly from his Chicago hometown. Cupich highlighted the promising doctor’s outlook and the global prayers for the pontiff’s full recovery. He stated, “He has much more good work to do, many more wise words to preach and many more ways to inspire others.” He recalled the city’s celebration of Leo’s selection as the first American pope in May 2025.

Numerous Chicagoans have since visited the pope at the Vatican, including government officials and students. The latter, who received attention for a mock conclave, sent a care package to Pope Leo. It included handwritten get-well notes and a White Sox blanket, reflecting the pope’s allegiance to his team. Currently, the pope’s schedule is on hold as he recovers through October 20.

A group of Chicago clergy plans to meet with Pope Leo on October 27 to discuss immigrant detainee issues, with no schedule changes yet announced. The Chicago-based Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership commented on the deeper appreciation for the pope following the diagnosis. A group of Vatican leaders, in Chicago for another conference, prayed for Leo at his childhood home as he underwent surgery.

Joe Boland, a Catholic Extension Society leader, expressed deep concern parallel to a personal family illness. Remembering a May meeting with the pope, Boland reflected on the pope’s global mission and his strong Chicago roots, seeing them as influential in his ministry.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.