POPE LEO XIV declared Peru his 'homeland' on Wednesday as he arrived in Lima to begin a historic visit, marking the emotional highlight of his three-nation South America tour. The pontiff, who served as bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023, returned to the city on Friday, where his image is ubiquitous across murals, memorabilia, and signs reading: 'Welcome home.'
Pope Leo’s return to Peru
Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pontiff, arrived in Lima on Nov. 11, 2026, to a reported 3 million people lining his motorcade route. He was greeted with Peruvian and Holy See flags, and sang the national anthem alongside President Keiko Fujimori and a children’s choir during a formal welcome ceremony. In his remarks, he stated, 'Today I understand how much of this land remains with me and how much of my own story also belongs to you. That is why I can tell you, with deep gratitude, that I am also returning to my homeland.'
The visit to Peru, his second home, follows decades of service in the country. Leo, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, spent over 20 years in Peru as a missionary priest and later as bishop of Chiclayo. He acquired Peruvian citizenship in 2015 and has described Peruvians as having shaped him into a pastor by sharing their lives, joys, and struggles with him.
Chiclayo’s celebration of its native son
Chiclayo, a city in northern Peru, has embraced Pope Leo as its own, with his image displayed prominently in public spaces. Murals, bobbleheads, baseball hats, and signs celebrating his return adorn the city. The Rev. Jasson Sempertegui, his former secretary, noted, 'People aren’t saying: ‘The pope is Peruvian.’ They’re saying, ‘The pope is Chiclayano!’'
Pope Leo’s affection for Chiclayo is reciprocated. During his time as bishop, he led initiatives such as purchasing oxygen production plants during the COVID-19 pandemic, wading through mud to assist flood victims, and celebrating Mass at a local prison. He also drove to remote villages to distribute blankets and sing Christmas songs, and was known for his love of regional dishes like duck with rice and goat stew.
Significance of the visit
The visit to Peru is the final leg of Pope Leo’s South America tour, which has drawn massive crowds and emotional welcomes. His first words as pope included a shoutout in Spanish to his 'beloved Diocese of Chiclayo' from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. The trip has been widely viewed as an emotional highlight, given his deep ties to the country.
Pope Leo’s dual citizenship—he is both American and Peruvian—makes him the first pope from each nation. His return to Peru underscores his enduring connection to the country where he learned 'what it means to be a shepherd.'