On Saturday night, the city of Chiclayo came alive to honor Pope Leo XIV, a figure deeply rooted in its community. The night was marked by a colorful procession, a spirited Mass, and traditional dances as locals expressed their admiration for their beloved pope.
Celebration in Chiclayo: Pope Leo XIV Honored with Festivities

Celebration in Chiclayo: Pope Leo XIV Honored with Festivities
Chiclayo, Peru, commemorates its beloved former bishop with a vibrant celebration.
In a heartfelt celebration in Chiclayo, Peru, residents gathered to pay tribute to Pope Leo XIV, who served as their bishop from 2014 to 2023. The event kicked off with a procession featuring altar boys and priests, culminating in a lively dance performance by costumed dancers at his former church steps. The night included a Mass filled with hymns, a performance from a priest, and joyous chants celebrating the "papa Chiclayano," solidifying the connection between the pope and his community.
On the evening of May 12, 2025, a magnificent celebration unfolded in Chiclayo, Peru, in honor of Pope Leo XIV. The festivities began with an enchanting procession led by altar boys and priests, making their way toward the iconic yellow cathedral. As twilight enveloped the city, the evening was punctuated by an engaging Mass that united hundreds of locals in song and prayer, followed by the thrilling sounds of fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Chiclayo, the nation’s fifth-largest city, is proud of its bond with the pope who dedicated nearly nine years to serving his flock. He is fondly remembered for traversing the mountains and coasts of northern Peru, using various means of travel, and delivering passionate sermons in fluid Spanish. The gathered crowd included nuns in their distinct white habits and church groups outfitted in coordinated attire, all eager to share in the joy of the occasion.
Outside the cathedral doors, large banners showcasing Pope Leo's warm smile added to the festive atmosphere. The celebration encapsulated the deep-rooted appreciation the people of Chiclayo have for the leader they affectionately refer to as their own, emphasizing both their spiritual connection and the profound impact he made during his time in the region.
On the evening of May 12, 2025, a magnificent celebration unfolded in Chiclayo, Peru, in honor of Pope Leo XIV. The festivities began with an enchanting procession led by altar boys and priests, making their way toward the iconic yellow cathedral. As twilight enveloped the city, the evening was punctuated by an engaging Mass that united hundreds of locals in song and prayer, followed by the thrilling sounds of fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Chiclayo, the nation’s fifth-largest city, is proud of its bond with the pope who dedicated nearly nine years to serving his flock. He is fondly remembered for traversing the mountains and coasts of northern Peru, using various means of travel, and delivering passionate sermons in fluid Spanish. The gathered crowd included nuns in their distinct white habits and church groups outfitted in coordinated attire, all eager to share in the joy of the occasion.
Outside the cathedral doors, large banners showcasing Pope Leo's warm smile added to the festive atmosphere. The celebration encapsulated the deep-rooted appreciation the people of Chiclayo have for the leader they affectionately refer to as their own, emphasizing both their spiritual connection and the profound impact he made during his time in the region.