Pope Leo XIV has departed for a major 12-day visit to South America, marking an important international trip expected to attract millions of people across the region.
The Pope departed on Friday, November 6, for a tour that will take him to countries in South America, a region with a significant Catholic population and a long history of religious influence.
The visit is particularly significant because Pope Leo XIV is returning to a part of the world where he previously lived and worked before becoming leader of the Catholic Church.
His journey is expected to include meetings with political leaders, religious representatives and local communities, alongside public celebrations and religious activities.
The tour also comes after the Pope underwent lung surgery about a month ago, making the journey an important public appearance following his medical recovery.
South America remains an important region for the Catholic Church, with millions of followers across countries such as Brazil, Peru, Argentina and Colombia.
The visit is expected to provide an opportunity for the Pope to address issues affecting communities across the region, including poverty, inequality, migration, social justice and the protection of vulnerable people.
His return is also expected to strengthen the relationship between the Vatican and Catholic communities in the region.
The 12-day journey will be closely followed internationally, particularly because it represents one of Pope Leo XIV’s major overseas engagements.
