POPE ADDRESSES THE FAITHFUL IN ST. PETER’S SQUARE

VATICAN, OCTOBER 18 /SRNA-Reuters/ - Pope Leo addressed the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican at his first public appearance since undergoing surgery for lung cancer five days ago.

He smiled from a window of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace as he addressed the pilgrims in a firm, clear voice.

Leo walked to the palace window on his own and delivered his customary Sunday noon address.

He thanked people around the world for their prayers and said he would gradually resume his full duties as head of the Roman Catholic Church.

"Having overcome this delicate phase, I will now gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers," the Pope said.

He urged the pilgrims gathered beneath the cloudy sky to set aside all selfish ambitions and serve God "without compromise."

The 71-year-old Pope underwent surgery on Tuesday to have the lower lobe of his right lung removed.