16:30 | Vatican City (The Vatican), Jan. 29.
The bishops of Peru received a surprise visit from
Pope Leo XIV during a fraternal lunch held on Thursday as part of the Visita Ad Limina Apostolorum, taking place at the Vatican from January 26 to 31, the
Peruvian Episcopal Conference (CEP) reported.
Via its social media channels, the CEP said the unexpected presence of Pope Leo XIV was highlighted as a gesture of closeness, communion, and pastoral accompaniment—one that strengthened the Peruvian Church’s mission, as well as the bond between the bishops and the Successor of Peter.
The meeting took place in a fraternal and simple atmosphere, amid the official activities being carried out by the Peruvian prelates at the Holy See.
The encounter came two days after the Mass celebrated by Peruvian bishops at St. Peter’s Basilica on January 27, on the second day of the Visita Ad Limina.
That Eucharistic celebration was attended by representatives of the South American country’s 46 ecclesiastical jurisdictions, as a sign of unity and communion with the Catholic Church.
During the homily, CEP Chairman, Monsignor Carlos Garcia Camader, said the bishops had come to Rome "in communion with the Successor of Peter and with all the Churches spread worldwide," reaffirming the conviction that guides their pastoral ministry.
The prelate emphasized that the Church in Peru has historically lived in communion with the See of Peter.
He also highlighted the figure of Saint Toribio de Mogrovejo as an example of a bishop who was close to his people, itinerant, and deeply committed to his nation.
"His example continues to remind us that a bishop cannot retreat into himself, but is instead called to walk with his people," he noted.
Garcia Camader underscored that the Visita Ad Limina constitutes a time of grace to renew dedication to the service of the Lord and the faithful.
"From the tomb of Peter, we renew our total availability to the Lord, aware that only love sustains the mission," the priest expressed.
Lastly, he said the bishops will return to Peru strengthened in their communion with Pope Leo XIV, confirmed in the apostolic faith, and renewed in their missionary zeal, committed to serving with fidelity, humility, and a preferential option for the poor.
(END) LIT/MVB
Published: 1/29/2026