Pope Leo XIV returns to Peru to a massive welcome

What happened

Pope Leo XIV visited Peru, a country where he spent two decades as a missionary and bishop, and was met by a large crowd. He rode in a motorcade through Lima, where the Vatican estimated about 3 million people lined the route. The pope, a Peruvian citizen, sang Peru's national anthem with President Keiko Fujimori at the presidential palace. He also called for stronger disaster prevention and urged Peruvians to cultivate honesty and integrity.

Why it matters

The visit is significant because it comes at a time when many Peruvians are weary of their leaders, with the country having had nine presidents since 2016 and high homicide rates. The Catholic Church is considered a more credible institution in Peru, with a significant number of people attending the pope's visit. The visit may have implications for the country's political and social landscape.

Key facts

• Pope Leo XIV has Peruvian citizenship
• The pope spent two decades in Peru as a missionary and bishop
• The Vatican estimated 3 million people lined the pope's motorcade route
• The pope called for stronger disaster prevention in Peru

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Also reported by

• thetablet.orgSource

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Pope Leo XIV

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