Pope Leo made an emotional return to his former diocese of Chiclayo in Peru on Wednesday, where he was greeted by thousands of supporters. The pope, who had undergone lung cancer surgery one month earlier, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support during his recovery. “As I look at your faces, a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord arises in my heart for the blessing you have been and continue to be in my life,” he said.

A Return to a ‘Second Home’

Leo, who previously served as bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023, is known locally as “Padre Roberto.” He spent about two decades in Peru as a missionary priest before becoming pope. His image is still widely recognized in the city, where he earned a reputation for his work with poor communities during crises such as the region’s devastating floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Vatican estimates, about 500,000 people gathered for a Mass at Pampas de Pimentel, a desert park outside the city, while another million lined the motorcade route. Some attendees had camped overnight or walked in the sun to avoid traffic in order to see the pope.

Health Concerns and Recovery

Leo’s return to Peru was initially uncertain after he underwent surgery for lung cancer last month. Doctors confirmed the cancer was localized and had not spread, which means no further treatment is necessary. Despite concerns about the pope’s health, the 12-day South American tour continued as planned, with Peru as the final stop following visits to Argentina and Uruguay.

Approximately 12 million people have attended public events during the tour so far. Leo is expected to stay in the Chiclayo area until Sunday, during which time he will lead eight events, including a private dinner with the priests he oversaw during his tenure as bishop.

A Personal and Public Journey

Originally from Chicago and formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, the pope also holds Peruvian citizenship and officially declared the country his homeland during his visit. “What a joy it is to return to Chiclayo,” he said at the start of his homily. As he rode in the popemobile, people in the crowd waved yellow and white Vatican flags and shouted, “The pope is from Chiclayo.”