The doctors in charge of the operation said that “the surgery has been successful, with no complications. The lumbar spinal decompression and fusion were carried out to relieve spinal stenosis.”

Following the doctors’ indications, Bishop Echevarría will remain in the University of Navarra Hospital for 10 days. Then he will spend several weeks in Pamplona recovering from the effects of the surgery. His auxiliary vicar, Msgr. Fernando Ocáriz, will be accompanying him. Both will return to Rome in December, in time for the start of the Jubilee of Mercy.

Before the operation, the Prelate expressed his thanks for the many expressions of concern and affection he has received, and said he will be praying for everyone. He also thanked the medical team and nurses for the excellent care he is receiving.

The Prelate made known that he would be undergoing this operation in his November 1 monthly letter to the faithful of the Prelature: “In a few days I will go to the University of Navarra Hospital, to undergo a surgical operation. I will be closely united to each and every one of you, and I hope you will sustain me with the strength of your prayer.”