As the community of Chiclayo embraces its connection to Pope Leo XIV, celebrations unfold with a colorful procession, a heartfelt Mass, and lively performances, marking the legacy of the beloved figure.
Celebrations for Pope Leo XIV Erupt in Chiclayo, Peru
Celebrations for Pope Leo XIV Erupt in Chiclayo, Peru
The city of Chiclayo honors its former bishop, Pope Leo XIV, with a vibrant ceremony featuring performances and a Mass in his memory.
On May 12, 2025, the northern Peruvian city of Chiclayo erupted in vibrant celebrations honoring Pope Leo XIV, the man who served as bishop there for nearly a decade. The festivities, which began on Saturday evening, featured a procession of altar boys and priests leading to a heartfelt Mass. Participants were also treated to a range of performances including a choir, a student band, and even a musical act by a popular priest.
The night culminated with an energetic dance performance titled the "Dance of the Little Devils," where performers clad in devil costumes danced joyfully on the steps of the cathedral. This tradition highlighted the unique cultural expression of the locals and their deep reverence for the pope.
Chiclayo, the fifth-largest city in Peru, boasts a rich history intertwined with Pope Leo XIV's ministry from 2014 to 2023. His dedication to the community was illustrated through his tireless travels across the region—sometimes taking to the mountains and coast on horseback—delivering impactful sermons in Spanish that garnered a loyal following.
In a lush plaza adorned with celebratory banners showcasing a beaming Pope Leo XIV, hundreds of faithful gathered, including nuns in their traditional white habits and church groups proudly clad in matching attire. The lively atmosphere was marked by fireworks and shared chants revering the “papa Chiclayano,” further cementing the pope’s legacy in the hearts of the Chiclayanos.
