Pope Leo XIV returns to Chiclayo, his former diocese in Peru, and says he has overcome his health problems
During Mass, Leo XIV expressed his gratitude for the affection, support and prayers of the faithful for his health. "What a joy it is to return to Chiclayo!" he exclaimed at the start of his homily, before stating that, with God's help, he is overcoming the trials he has faced.
Pope Leo XIV kisses a cross during a visit to the Chapel of Saint Óscar A. Romero in Chiclayo
Pope Leo XIV assured on Friday that he is "overcoming" his health issues during an emotional return to Chiclayo, Peru, the city where he served as bishop for nearly eight years. His visit, which comes weeks after he underwent surgery for lung cancer, was a clear demonstration of resilience and closeness to the faithful, who welcomed him as one of their own.
A much-awaited return
Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in the Pimentel plains, about 9 miles from Chiclayo, to welcome the pontiff amid intense heat of nearly 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Many came with umbrellas and hats, while others lifted their babies to receive the pope's blessing from the popemobile.
The visit is part of a 12-day tour of South America that began in Uruguay, continued in Argentina and ends in Peru, a country where Leo XIV lived for nearly two decades. Before the tour, there were doubts as to whether the 71-year-old pontiff would be able to handle such a demanding itinerary following the surgery he underwent in mid-October.
"I am overcoming" the trial
During Mass, Leo XIV expressed his gratitude for the affection, support, and prayers of the faithful for his health. "What a joy to be back in Chiclayo!" he exclaimed as he began his homily, before affirming that, with God's help, he is overcoming the trials he has faced.
His words were met with applause and celebration by the crowd. For many of the faithful, the pope's return to the city where he was known as Monsignor Robert Prevost represents not only a pastoral visit but also a reunion with a community that considers him part of its history.
Chiclayo welcomes him as one of their own
In downtown Chiclayo, a coastal city of about 600,000 residents, the pope's image is visible in stores, on posters and in shop windows. Messages saying "Welcome home" reflect the emotional bond that many of the faithful share with the religious leader who served as bishop of the diocese from 2015 to 2023.
Parishioners remember Prevost as a bishop who was approachable, hardworking and accessible. Jorge Villegas, vicar general of the diocese, noted that the pontiff traveled even to the most remote corners of the region and showed solidarity during severe floods, not hesitating to personally accompany those affected.
During the COVID pandemic, Prevost promoted the construction of two oxygen plants to care for patients at a time when that resource was in short supply. That memory reinforces the image of a religious leader committed to the concrete needs of his community.
Faith, devotion and anticipation
César Arroyo, a 65-year-old devotee, walked about 6.2 miles pushing a cart with a statue of Christ to attend Mass. "We're praying for his recovery," he told AFP, adding that, although the pope was not born in Peru, "he has the heart of a Chiclayo native."
Other faithful highlighted the then-bishop's approachability. Cyntia López, a tour operator, recalled receiving his blessing during a difficult time in her life, while Pahola Rojas described him as an approachable priest who used to walk through the city, greeting and talking with people.
The visit is also raising economic expectations. Some residents hope that the pope's presence will boost tourism in Chiclayo and leave a positive mark on the city where he served as a priest before becoming the leader of the Catholic Church.
A test of endurance
In addition to the Mass in Pimentel, the pope will meet with clergy and students, and will make a private visit to the San Óscar Romero Chapel, located in one of Chiclayo's poorest neighborhoods. The pontiff helped rebuild the chapel during his time as bishop of the diocese.
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