Peru’s young people celebrated their faith with a special visit from Pope Leo XIV, marking a moment that will be etched in memory for years to come. On July 28th, a group of 105 Peruvian pilgrims met the Pope at the Vatican, coinciding with Peru’s Independence Day and the start of the Jubilee of Youth 2025.
The gesture was seen as a sign of closeness, bringing together youth from different countries within the Catholic Church. According to Ximena Valdivia Muro, Youth Ministry Coordinator for the Diocese of Chiclayo, Pope Leo XIV expressed his joy at seeing young people from Peru, reminding them that they are part of one Church despite their differences.
Gisela Reátegui Valderas, also from Chiclayo, was emotional as she saw the Pope again after many years, saying it felt like coming home. The Pope’s message to the youth emphasized forgiveness, shared faith, and living out the sacraments to proclaim the Good News.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-07/peruvian-youth-celebrate-peru-faith-interview-pope.html