Pope Leo XIV’s Return to Latin America: A Journey of Legacy and Engagement

Pope Leo XIV will embark on a significant journey to Latin America in November, marking his longest trip as pope. His travels will include visits to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. This trip serves as a homecoming for the U.S.-born pontiff, who holds Peruvian citizenship and dedicated twenty years of his life as a priest and bishop there.

Leo’s itinerary, revealed by the Vatican, underscores his commitment to engaging with communities across vast distances. The trip will span approximately 31,000 kilometers, considerably more than his earlier travels in Africa. Highlights of the journey include his stops in Uruguay, a nation known for its secular culture. Notably, Christmas is celebrated as ‘Family Day,’ and Holy Week as ‘Tourism Week.’ While in Uruguay, Leo will visit a parish in the drug-afflicted neighborhood of Casavalle on the outskirts of the capital. He will also commemorate an important Catholic feast day honoring Our Lady of the Thirty-Three.

In Argentina, where anticipation builds for Leo’s visit, President Javier Milei and approximately 7 million people are expected to participate. Leo’s visit holds particular significance as former Pope Francis never returned to his native Argentina after becoming pope, a decision influenced by past controversies and political considerations. Leo will meet President Milei, known for his criticism of Francis and economic cutbacks that have raised tensions with church leaders. Leo’s visit includes the Don Orione care home, highlighting concerns over budget reductions affecting disability services.

Pope Leo’s connection to Peru is profound, reinforced by his return to his former diocese of Chiclayo. Here, he will reminisce about his days as bishop, celebrating Mass in familiar locales. He previously served in Chiclayo from 2014 to 2023 before moving to the Vatican. Leo aims to reconnect with communities where he formed strong bonds as a bishop. His itinerary includes Mass at Pampas de Pimentel, anticipated to gather one million attendees, and prayers at a chapel dedicated to St. Oscar Romero, a figure cherished by the working class.

Leo’s journey acknowledges the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Latin America. In Cusco, a city shaped by its Inca heritage and colonial history, Leo will celebrate Mass and honor the Indigenous legacy of Túpac Amaru II’s rebellion against Spanish rule. His travels in Peru’s Amazon further reflect his commitment to recognizing Indigenous peoples and their contributions.