Key facts
- Pope Leo's South America tour, including Peru, is scheduled for November 6-17.
- He previously served as a priest and bishop in northern Peru.
- Pope Leo was tapped to lead the Vatican office for bishop appointments in 2023.
- He underwent surgery for lung cancer weeks before the tour.
Pope Leo, formerly known as Bishop Robert Prevost, is set to embark on a South America tour from November 6 to 17, with a significant stop in Peru. Many Peruvians recall his dedicated service as a priest and bishop in the country, including launching a soup kitchen during the pandemic and assisting migrants. The Vatican confirmed the tour is proceeding as scheduled, despite the Pope's recent surgery for lung cancer. His visit includes earlier stops in Uruguay and Argentina.