In an emotional highlight of his 12-day South American tour, Pope Leo returned to Chiclayo, Peru, to celebrate an outdoor Mass before a massive crowd of 1.5 million people. For the Pope, who served as the city’s bishop from 2015 to 2023, the visit served as a poignant homecoming. Addressing the faithful at the Pampas de Pimentel, he expressed deep gratitude for his recovery, telling the crowd that being present was a special blessing coming only one month after his surgery for lung cancer. The atmosphere was electric, with thousands of supporters cheering for the leader they still affectionately call "Padre" or "Amigo."

The scale of the gathering, which drew millions across his three-nation tour, highlights the profound bond between the Pope and the Peruvian people. Despite the intense heat, attendees—some of whom traveled for days or camped overnight—waved Vatican flags and celebrated the man who previously spent two decades in the region as a missionary. Following his successful operation, the Pope has appeared in high spirits, engaging with locals and participating in numerous events throughout his stay. This visit not only underscores his deep ties to his "adopted homeland" but also marks a resilient return to public life for the Pontiff after his recent health challenges.