The event took place minutes after the Supreme Pontiff toured the interior of the sports venue aboard the Popemobile, as he was cheered by those attending the prayer vigil with young people and university students, his last public event of the day.
Following the remarks by the Archbishop of Lima and Primate of Peru, Cardinal Carlos Castillo, who reminded him of his pastoral life in the country, the spectators who filled the playing field and stands of the José Díaz sports complex in Lima responded with another lengthy ovation.
On the platform set up in the stadium's northern section, the Supreme Pontiff was unable to contain his emotion.
With tears in his eyes, His Holiness expressed the profound joy he felt at the affection shown by the spectators through applause and cheers. The crowd had arrived early to hear him.
The excitement erupted after Cardinal Castillo asked the Supreme Pontiff to address a few words of encouragement to young people, including those who are not believers.
"Thank you so much for being here with them and giving your heart for their sake," he concluded, prompting a remarkable ovation that lasted several minutes.
After openly wiping away his tears, Pope Leo XIV continued leading the gathering with young people, listened to the testimonies of several of them, and watched the artistic performances prepared for the occasion.
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