About three million welcome Pope Leo XIV on his return to Peru

Approximately three million people welcomed Pope Leo XIV upon his return to Peru, marking the final leg of his Latin America tour. The reception was massive along the ten-kilometer route from the airport to Lima's historic center, where he met President Keiko Fujimori. Many gathered to witness the first visit of a Peruvian pope, capturing the moment on their phones against the sunset. In his first speech, Leo XIV expressed gratitude for returning to his adopted home, reflecting on his years as a missionary in Peru. He emphasized the deep connection he feels with the country and its people, sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting the significance of his return as the Successor of Peter. His visit to Peru will last six days, covering cities like Lima, Cusco, and Chiclayo, following stops in Uruguay and Argentina. This trip comes shortly after his recovery from lung cancer surgery.