Pope Leo XIV Considers Adding Santa Cruz, Peru, to Visit Agenda

Pope Leo XIV is evaluating the inclusion of Santa Cruz province in Cajamarca, Peru, into his itinerary during his visit to the country from November 11 to 16. Raúl Diez Canseco Terry, a senior advisor for the pontiff's visit, revealed the possibility.

Diez Canseco explained that the Pope could travel to Santa Cruz from Chiclayo, a province within the Chiclayo diocese. However, he stressed that the visit hinges on logistical and security assessments. "Leo XIV has set his own agenda," Diez Canseco remarked, noting that a Vatican commission is already surveying Santa Cruz and other locations to map out potential routes for the pontiff.

The potential trip to Santa Cruz requires special planning. Helicopter transport is being considered due to the route's characteristics and the limited time available. Defense Minister Rafael Belaúnde is reportedly monitoring the situation. The final decision will follow evaluations by the Vatican commission and Peruvian authorities.

Should Santa Cruz be added, it would join Lima, Callao, Chiclayo, Cusco, and Pucallpa on the Pope's official schedule. A large gathering with young Peruvians at Lima's Estadio Monumental is also being considered, with the venue potentially hosting up to 60,000 attendees, chosen for its security and capacity.

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Leo XIV has set his own agenda