(ANS – Lima – November 12, 2026) – Wednesday, November 11, 2026, is a date that will remain in the history of the Salesian Family in Peru. Indeed, during the first appointments on his agenda in Lima, Pope Leo XIV passed by the monumental Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in the Breña district, where he met with representatives of the Salesian Family and greeted the many faithful who had gathered to welcome him. On this occasion, the Holy Father also blessed the Basilica and the image of Mary Help of Christians.

The Pope’s passage caused great emotion among those present. Right in front of the Basilica, Pope Leo XIV switched from the armored car to the popemobile, giving rise to the much-awaited encounter with the Salesian Family. Amid flags, songs, applause, and expressions of affection, representatives of the various groups of the Salesian Family gathered together, not only from the works in Lima but also from other Peruvian localities.

A Simple Pastor, a Friend of Many Peruvians

The visit took on a particularly intense meaning precisely because of the bond that unites the Pope with Peru. Those who had known him as Monsignor Robert Prevost, a bishop close to the people, a simple pastor, and a friend of many Peruvians, welcomed him back to the country as the Successor of Peter. He arrived in this land that he knows so well and with which he shared a significant part of his priestly and episcopal life.

The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians

The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Breña, with over a century of history and recognized as a cultural heritage site of the nation, is one of the most significant symbols of Marian devotion and the Salesian presence in Peru. Every May 24, its doors open to welcome the large procession in honor of Mary Help of Christians, which brings together thousands of faithful, young people, former students, families, and educators, all united in their devotion to the Mother and Protector of the work of Don Bosco.

Preparations for the Arrival of the Pope

From the early hours of the day, the area around the Basilica was bustling with activity in anticipation of the Pope’s arrival: families, young people, and the faithful gathered to participate in this long-awaited event with great enthusiasm, while the streets were filled with flags and memorabilia dedicated to the papal visit.

For the Salesian Family of Peru, Pope Leo XIV’s greeting in front of the House of Mary Help of Christians will remain one of the most significant memories of this apostolic visit. It was a moment in which the history of the Salesian presence in the country, Marian devotion, and the Pope’s connection with the Peruvian people were intertwined.

The entire event was documented by a large group of communicators from the Salesian Communication Center (CSC), with the support and collaboration of various Salesian works. Communicators and young people from various Salesian presences made their skills and talents available to tell the story of this historic encounter.

For the Salesian Family, the visit also represents an opportunity to renew its commitment to accompanying young people, especially the poor, with the heart of Don Bosco and under the maternal gaze of Mary Help of Christians.