Pope Leo XIV will make the first apostolic journey of his pontificate to South America 6-17 November, visiting 10 cities across Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
The Vatican announced 5 August that the trip will begin in Uruguay, continue to Argentina – the homeland of the late Pope Francis – and conclude in Peru, where Pope Leo served for decades as an Augustinian missionary and later as bishop of Chiclayo.
Stops include Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Luján, Lima and Chiclayo. The visit marks his first return to Peru since his election. Cardinal Daniel Sturla has welcomed the visit, saying, “Almost 40 years ago, we experienced the unforgettable visit of St John Paul II. Now we welcome Pope Leo with enormous anticipation. It is a joy for the Church, but also for all of Uruguay.”
Peru’s Diocese of Chiclayo said in a social media post, “It will be a historic visit that will unite us as a people and as a Church.” The diocese added, “With joy and hope, we prepare to welcome the Successor of Peter and to experience this time of grace together.”
