Pope Leo XIV Welcomed by Millions in Peru

Millions of people turned out to welcome Pope Leo XIV to Peru as he arrived for the final leg of his three-nation Latin American tour. The pontiff, who recently underwent surgery for lung cancer, was greeted by enthusiastic crowds waving flags and wearing themed apparel as his plane touched down. Vatican figures indicated that approximately three million individuals gathered in Lima, marking the largest assembly of his current papacy following large gatherings in Argentina.

Born in Chicago, the head of the Catholic Church spent two decades working as a missionary priest and bishop in Peru before eventually obtaining citizenship. Referring to the country as his adopted homeland, the pontiff expressed deep gratitude during his remarks at Lima’s Gran Teatro Nacional, noting that a significant part of his personal story belongs to the region. Ahead of his arrival, local authorities erected a 14-metre statue in Callao, while merchants across the capital offered various souvenirs to commemorate the visit.

Pope Leo XIV in Peru

During his itinerary, the pontiff engaged in discussions with President Keiko Fujimori, addressing the nation's past and urging authorities to foster trust among citizens following a narrow electoral outcome. He emphasized the importance of justice, sensitivity, and addressing historical differences with respect to support democratic institutions. In response, the leader of Peru described the papal visit as an opportunity to pursue national reconciliation.

Millions of citizens greeted Pope Leo XIV in Peru during the final stop of his Latin American tour.

Why it matters

The ongoing Latin American tour brings the head of the Catholic Church to key regions where he previously served, notably including an upcoming three-day stay in Chiclayo where he was stationed as a bishop for several years. This journey highlights significant diplomatic and social engagements across the continent following recent medical procedures.