Cardinal Castillo: Pope Leo’s visit to Peru can strengthen unity

By Patricia Ynestroza 

Preparations are already well underway in Peru, where the Pope will travel from 11 to 17 November as part of his Apostolic Journey to South America, following stops in Uruguay and Argentina. Pope Leo XIV will visit the four cities of Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco and Pucallpa, in the country where he served as a missionary and Bishop.

In an interview with Vatican News, Cardinal Carlos Castillo, Archbishop of Lima, expressed the great joy and anticipation of the Peruvian people, insisting that the Pope’s return to the country where he served as a missionary responds to a profound hope that had been growing in the hearts of the Peruvian people.

“As Archbishop of Lima, I can say with complete sincerity that there is enormous anticipation for the Pope’s arrival,” he explained, reiterating that Peru is a country with a strong Catholic tradition and that the Pope is welcomed as “a true friend of the people, of the entire population.”

In a special way, the Cardinal highlighted the Pope’s bond with the people of Chiclayo. The official announcement of the visit on 5 August fulfilled the expectations that had been building over recent months.

“We welcome this news not only with great joy, but also with a vital strength that inspires us to devote ourselves generously to our faith, in order to welcome him and give new impetus to our Christian and Catholic experience,” Cardinal Castillo said.

He also stressed that the Pope’s arrival comes at a complex moment for Peru, marked by social problems such as insecurity, contract killings, extortion and various situations that particularly affect the most vulnerable sectors of society.

In this context, he suggested, the Pope’s presence can help the country to reflect and renew its commitment to life, justice and solidarity.

The Archbishop of Lima also explained that preparations are underway with preparatory committees having already been established in the four cities that will welcome Pope Leo XIV.