Pope León XIV to visit Peruvian town rooted in his past
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People in Zaña, a district in Peru’s Lambayeque region, are preparing for a historic visit from Pope León XIV between November 11 and 16.
The Pope, known before his papacy as Robert Francis Prevost, previously served as a bishop in the nearby diocese of Chiclayo and formed close ties with the Zaña community. This visit marks the first time a Pope will include a rural town in the itinerary of a trip to Peru.
Zaña has a long religious history, dating back to the colonial period and a visit from Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo. Pope León XIV walked its streets and celebrated mass in its churches while serving as bishop, becoming familiar with the needs of local families.
Father David Farfán, a priest at the Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo church, noted the unusual choice to include Zaña, stating that it’s the first time a Pope has added a small town to a trip that also includes major cities. Residents of Zaña remember the Pope’s approachable manner and his support for the community through humanitarian initiatives and during times of climate and economic hardship.
Locals are organizing welcome committees with songs, testimonials, and cultural expressions reflecting the area’s Afro-Peruvian and Creole identity. Authorities are coordinating with police and the Peruvian Episcopal Conference to ensure the safety of visitors and pilgrims traveling to the district. The Pope’s visit is expected to deliver a message of hope and fraternity to the people of Zaña, and local leaders hope it will inspire spiritual and social renewal focused on solidarity and care for vulnerable populations.
