Pope Leo XIV in Peru, second day in Chiclayo and mass in Santa Cruz. PHOTO

Second day of Pope Leo

Since the first light of dawn, many faithful have crowded in front of the Cathedral awaiting the arrival of the Pontiff.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria represents a visit full of meaning for the Pope. "It witnessed the first steps of the episcopal ministry at the service of this Diocese of Chiclayo", recalled the Pontiff himself.

During the celebration, there was no shortage of references to the present. "Even today the darkness continues to lurk and seems to envelop us completely. We feel threatened by the uncertainty of widespread violence, by the unspeakable suffering that continues to affect so many brothers", said Prevost, who then added how "despite it weakening our trust, a defenseless child is the response that God gives to humanity eager for unity and reconciliation".

At the end of the mass the Pope performed an act of entrustment of his own Petrine ministry by placing a crown on the statue of the Immaculate Virgin Mary.