Pope Leo XIV returns to second homeland Peru to a nationwide welcome

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Peru, where he spent more than two decades as a missionary priest and bishop, to a warm welcome from crowds and officials. The visit is the final stop on his three-country South American tour and has particular significance because Leo says Peru shaped his pastoral vocation; he is also the first pope born in the United States and Peru to hold both countries’ citizenship.

Thousands lined his motorcade route, while celebrations included a 14-metre statue, papal-themed coffee and murals. Leo is due to celebrate Mass in places where he served and speak about Peruvians’ hopes and challenges. The country has 34 million people, and 25.7% lived in monetary poverty in 2025; concerns include inequality, violent crime and the approaching El Niño climate pattern.