Pope Leo XIV Returns to Peru in Celebrated Homecoming

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Lima, Peru, on Wednesday, marking a significant return to a land he considers his ‘homeland.’ This visit kicked off with widespread celebrations as Peruvians welcomed back the beloved ‘Padre Robert’ to his roots. The pope expressed sincere emotion as he greeted the thousands who lined his motorcade route, holding both Peruvian and Vatican flags.

The security detail faced challenges as some enthusiastic spectators broke ranks to catch a glimpse of this historic moment. After arriving at the presidential palace, Pope Leo XIV met with Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori. During the courtyard ceremony, he joined Fujimori and a children’s choir in singing the Peruvian national anthem.

Addressing Peruvian officials, the Chicago-born pope spoke about acquiring Peruvian citizenship in 2015, emphasizing his deep connection with the country. ‘This land is part of me, and my story is intertwined with yours,’ he said, eliciting applause from the audience.

Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Peru concludes a three-nation tour of South America. This final segment holds emotional weight as he spent over two decades living and working in Peru, initially as a missionary priest and later as a bishop. Dual citizen of the U.S. and Peru, Leo is the first pope from both countries.

Local excitement has been palpable. An 85-year-old resident, Evelina Cruz, conveyed her appreciation of Leo’s work in the country. Lima prepared with special tributes, including a 46-foot statue unveiling in El Callao and cafes offering cappuccinos with his likeness.

“My heart is so excited that it makes me want to cry with joy,” remarked Zuly Castillo, his former secretary during his tenure as bishop in Chiclayo.

Sociologist Gustavo Morello echoed the sentiment, noting that Peru serves as the highlight of Pope Leo’s journey. Hundreds gathered around the presidential palace, energetically singing in anticipation of his arrival.

Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass in memorable locales, such as the sanctuary of St. Turibius of Mogrovejo in Zaña. His deeply rooted connection with Peru will inform his talks addressing local challenges and future aspirations.

Adding to his itinerary, Pope Leo will travel to Pucallpa in the Amazon to recognize Peru’s Indigenous peoples. The area faces issues such as illegal gold mining and coca leaf cultivation, impacting Indigenous communities.

The pope’s itinerary also includes Cusco, where he will meet with cultural groups and hold a Mass in the city square. This location is historically significant as it remembers Indigenous hero Túpac Amaru II.

Pope Leo’s visit follows his recovery from lung cancer surgery performed in Italy. He was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma but has since been cleared for international travel. His health experience motivated him to advocate for universal healthcare access during a speech in Uruguay.

Further, the pope made news by participating in the U.S. midterm elections via mail-in voting, a first for a sitting pontiff.