Prayers for Pope Leo XIV

14 October 2026, Ottawa — The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops joins the faithful

across Canada and throughout the world in praying for the swift and complete recovery of

His Holiness Pope Leo XIV following his surgery on 13 October 2026.


According to the medical statement released by the Holy See Press Office, the operation earlier

today involved the removal of the lower lobe of the Holy Father’s right lung. Examination of tissue

during the procedure confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. The surgery was completed

successfully and without complications.


The Bishops of Canada express their affection and spiritual closeness to the Holy Father and their

gratitude to the medical team caring for him.


Recalling his message for the 34th World Day of the Sick, we entrust the Holy Father and all those

who suffer from illness to the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Health of the Sick.

May they receive the care, compassion and comfort they need, and may those who accompany

them be strengthened in their service.


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. 

Amen.