‘One of our own from Chiclayo’: At his former cathedral, Pope Leo urges Catholics to walk together

Pope Leo XIV returned to his former cathedral in Peru on Nov. 14 to take part in the crowning of a Marian statue while urging Catholics to pursue “a world marked by love and compassion.”

“I give thanks to God for being here with you today to celebrate our faith as we have so often done, and in the same cathedral in which I began my episcopal ministry,” the pope told Catholics at the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Chiclayo.

Pope Leo XIV takes part in a Marian crowning ceremony at the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Chiclayo, Peru, Nov. 14, 2026. | Credit: Francis Rocca/EWTN News

In crowning the statue of the Blessed Mother, the Holy Father said the gesture “is intended to symbolize the tribute of gratitude and filial love offered to her by the pope, together with you and the whole Church.”

Addressing the Chiclayo Diocese — which Leo led as Bishop Robert Prevost for years before being appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Rome — the pope described devotion to the Immaculate Virgin as “part of the Christian roots that shape your identity and strengthen your faith.”

Pope Leo XIV stands before a Marian statue during a crowning ceremony at the Cathedral of Saint Mary…