Patricia Ynestroza – Vatican
It has been officially confirmed that Leo XIV will undertake an apostolic journey to South America from November 6 to 17, visiting three countries on the continent: Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. From November 11 to 17, the Holy Father will stay in four Peruvian cities: Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco, and Pucallpa.
In an interview with Vatican media, Cardinal Carlos Castillo, Archbishop of Lima, expressed deep joy and hope with which the Church in Peru awaits this event. He also spoke about the expectations of the faithful, the preparations underway in the cities the Pope will visit, and the message of fraternity, unity, and peace that—in his view—the Holy Father will bring to the country.
“We will welcome the Pope with great hope and joy”
The Church in Peru has welcomed the official announcement of the papal visit with great joy. According to Cardinal Carlos Castillo, this event responds to a deep hope that has long been maturing in the hearts of Peruvians.
“As a Peruvian cardinal and Archbishop of Lima, I can honestly say that we are preparing with great anticipation to welcome the Holy Father,” he admitted. He recalled that Peru is a country with a strong Catholic tradition, and the Pope is perceived as “a true friend of the people, of the entire nation.”
The cardinal paid special attention to Leo XIV’s bond with the residents of Chiclayo and emphasized that the official announcement of the visit fulfilled expectations that had been growing in recent months.
“Not only did we receive this news with immense joy, but it also gave us a life-giving impulse that strengthens our faith and encourages us to commit even more generously to warmly welcoming the Holy Father and reviving our Christian life,” he admitted.
Cardinal Castillo noted that the Pope’s arrival comes at a difficult time for Peru, marked by social problems such as insecurity, contract killings, extortion, and other phenomena affecting particularly the poor and vulnerable. In this context, he expressed his belief that Leo XIV’s presence can help the country reflect and renew its commitment to life, justice, and solidarity.
Preparations are underway in Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco, and Pucallpa
Speaking about the organization of the visit, the Archbishop of Lima explained that organizing committees have already been established in all four cities the Holy Father will visit. “The preparatory commissions have been very well organized, and each of them specializes in its own field, coordinating all the necessary aspects of the visit,” he pointed out.
Among the areas of their work, he mentioned the preparation of meeting places, liturgies, the participation of various social circles, and the organization of pastoral events. The cardinal highlighted the involvement of young people, local communities, indigenous populations, and many other groups showcasing Peru’s social and cultural wealth.
“These preparations are extremely interesting because very many people are taking part and showing initiative,” he stated, emphasizing the effort being made in all the regions involved. He also assured that every measure is being taken to ensure a dignified and safe reception for the Holy Father throughout the entire visit.
A message of fraternity, unity, and peace for Peru
Asked about the message the Pope will bring to Peru, Cardinal Castillo drew attention to the importance of the papal encyclical and its practical application in the reality of Peru. According to the Archbishop of Lima, one of the greatest challenges facing the country is regaining the ability to build a society that can recognize diversity and create unity. “Today we clearly see that Peru’s biggest problem is a crisis of humanity,” he pointed out. He explained that the diversity of the Peruvian nation should be seen as a wealth, while building unity must become a common task for all. He expressed hope that the Pope will share his reflection on the situation in Peru in the light of the teaching on fraternity and solidarity.
“It would be wonderful if he showed us how he perceives the implementation of the encyclical’s message in the life of Peru,” he stated, noting that the Holy Father knows well the difficulties the country is struggling with. Among them, he once again mentioned insecurity, violence, and insufficient care for the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable people. Referring to this situation, Cardinal Castillo pointed to the need to rebuild society’s capacity to act together and to strengthen a synodal Church capable of forging paths of encounter and dialogue. “We must develop this dimension of synodality, thanks to which our Church can be an example and teacher of how to build unity without resorting to violence,” he pointed out.
In conclusion, he expressed hope that the papal pilgrimage will contribute to strengthening peace based on dialogue and reconciliation. “May the Holy Father help us to ‘disarm’ ourselves and ensure that unarmed and disarming peace can fully flourish,” he concluded, once again expressing the joy with which the Peruvian nation awaits the Pope’s arrival.
