Pope Leo XIV was discharged from the hospital on Saturday after having surgery to remove a cancerous nodule in his lungs.

Why it matters: His discharge clears the way for his rigorous upcoming travel schedule and may alleviate fears of a leadership vacuum at the Vatican.

What they're saying: " In light of the blood tests and chest X-ray performed this morning, and following an assessment of his clinical condition, the Holy Father has been deemed fit for discharge ," The Holy See Press Office said in a Saturday statement attributed to Leo's doctors, Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora.

Catch up quick: The Vatican announced Leo would be having surgery to remove a nodule from his lung on Oct.…