Carmen Álvarez Cuadrado
This was the image of the day: Pope Leo XIV is finally home. The Pope has returned to Peru, where he served as a missionary and bishop and lived for more than 20 years. This is how he was welcomed.
And the streets of Lima were waiting for him, packed with people. Three million people filling avenues, bridges, and highways.
Upon arriving at the Government Palace, alongside the country’s president, they sang the national anthem. And Pope Leo XIV sang it with emotion, like any other Peruvian, because he is one. He holds Peruvian citizenship.
And later, once again, the pope was moved by this music group of people with disabilities.
From there, Pope Leo XIV once again traveled by car to the National Grand Theater for his meeting with the country’s authorities.
As expected, Pope Leo XIV spoke about his time in the country.
POPE LEO XIV
This return holds a very special meaning for me. My story with Peru began long before the Lord entrusted me with the Diocese of Chiclayo. For decades, I shared in the lives of its people, listened to their concerns, and learned from their faith. Many opened the doors of their homes to me, shared their tables with me—and, of course, some good ceviche—and made me feel like one of their own. In 2015, I received Peruvian citizenship.
Prevost remained in Peru until 2023, when Pope Francis called him to Rome, never knowing that one day he would return to the country as pope. In fact, the Pope said that Peru remains with him every day in many ways.
POPE LEO XIV
I have received so much from you. There are faces, conversations, and gestures of affection that, after so many years, continue to accompany me. From the See of Peter, I wish to reciprocate all this affection with my prayers and my closeness.
And the Pope received a round of applause from the entire audience. Because although he is now known as Pope Leo XIV, there was a time when he was Robert Prevost. And for Peruvians, he will always remain the missionary and bishop who now visits them dressed in white. To them, he will always be Father Roberto.
