The key facts

  • Pope Leo XIV led a youth prayer vigil at Lima's National Stadium
  • About 60,000 people in the stadium and roughly 300,000 outside
  • The visit is part of a 12-day tour of South America following Uruguay and Argentina

Meeting with young people in Lima

Pope Leo XIV led a prayer vigil for young people at Lima's National Stadium. The pontiff arrived at the arena in an open vehicle, smiling and waving to the crowd; some spectators ran alongside the motorcade, while others held up signs, balloons and miniature figurines of him. As darkness fell, tens of thousands of people switched on their phone flashlights, illuminating the stands amid singing and chanted cheers.

Scale of the event and tour itinerary

The evening gathering brought together young Peruvian Catholics and students for prayer and reflection. According to available estimates, about 60,000 people filled the stadium, while roughly 300,000 more gathered outside. The vigil took place in the final part of the pope's 12-day tour of South America, during which he had earlier visited Uruguay and Argentina.

The pope's personal connection to Peru

For the pontiff, who was born in the United States, the visit carries deep personal significance. He served the Church in Peru for more than two decades, including as Bishop of Chiclayo, and in 2015 — under his birth name, Robert Prevost — received Peruvian citizenship. The pope has long called the country his 'homeland'; the crowds still fondly remember him as 'Padre Roberto', which was especially evident at the lively youth gathering.