Neither the light rain nor the countless hours of waiting could dampen the spirits of the people of Chiclayo as they gathered to bid farewell to the man who had once been their bishop—and who had now returned as Pope Leo XIV during a religious tour of northern Peru.
For the city’s residents, the events of the last few hours became a profound experience of faith and hope. Pope Leo XIV, in turn, offered many gestures demonstrating the deep connection he feels toward the local people.
Setting aside protocol, the Holy Father paused just as he was leaving the Episcopal Residence—en route to Cusco—making the farewell feel deeply personal to everyone present.
"Thank you all for your warm welcome. I offer you the Lord’s blessing, that it may strengthen your faith and that you may always walk together in unity. May Chiclayo always be a capital of friendship, as well as a place of devotion and faithfulness," Pope Leo XIV said.
His blessing unleashed a wave of deep emotion, clearly visible on the faces of those who had come to greet him.
These words moved many of the faithful to tears—a collective, silent outpouring. Some wept for joy, having lived out their faith and drawn closer to the Lord Jesus Christ; others wept with the sadness of seeing their representative on earth—Pope Leo XIV—depart.
"When he left (back when he was a bishop), we cried a great deal because we thought we would never see him again. Today, our tears are filled with deep emotion because he returned—he was with us... he has grown in stature, yet remains just as humble. He told us to walk together in unity, and that is exactly what we are going to do. Today, Chiclayo is more united than ever," said Leonor Farromeque.
For the people of Chiclayo, Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey does not simply continue elsewhere; in their hearts, he remains—present in every neighborhood, in every place of worship, and within every family that accompanied him—not just today, but also during his time as bishop in Chiclayo.
Perhaps that is why, even after the official vehicle carrying him toward the air base—en route to Cusco—had departed, the people of Chiclayo did not leave. They remained in the streets, singing and raising their hands, much like one does when bidding farewell to a brother who is setting off on a journey.
"This visit has left us with more than just a religious celebration; it has set before us a challenge—to become not only better people, but better Catholics," remarked Rosario Sirlupú, a young mother who had waited for hours to see the Pontiff, never imagining the profound impact his words would have on her.
"It is an indescribable emotion. I began to cry and embraced a woman standing next to me—a complete stranger. We both wept uncontrollably. I saw many others doing the same. That is the effect the Pope has, through his spirituality," she emphasized.
And so, Chiclayo remained—adorned with banners and flags, but above all, filled with a deep sense of love and a commitment to follow the word and the message of faith that Leo XIV has shared with them.
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Published: 11/15/2026