More than a million pilgrims reach Luján ahead of Pope Leo XIV's visit

More than a million people gathered last weekend at the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján, in the Argentine province of Buenos Aires, for the 52nd annual pilgrimage to the shrine. This year the event also served to prepare for the arrival of Pope Leo XIV, expected in November. Persistent rain did not keep the faithful away, and they arrived in large numbers from Saturday until well into Sunday.

The crowds, which began arriving in the early hours of Saturday, required a large security and medical operation. Authorities also regard it as a dress rehearsal for the Mass the pope will celebrate on November 11. Hundreds of thousands of the faithful are expected to set out for Luján the night before to secure a place near the basilica, one of the country's main Marian shrines.

Security operation and logistical preparation

Throughout the weekend the Church organized Masses for pilgrims arriving in groups after the long walk. During the pilgrimage the image of Our Lady of Luján was carried from Buenos Aires on the shoulders of men and women who took turns bearing it.

The pope's apostolic journey will include events in Buenos Aires and Córdoba between November 8 and 11. Since it was announced, local governments and the national government have been working on a plan that anticipates up to seven million people traveling across the country to see the pope. The mayor of Luján, Leonardo Boto, said the city must prepare not only to receive visitors but also to manage their departure. During the visit, 17,000 officers from different security forces will be deployed.

After the celebration in Luján, the pope will continue his South American trip in Peru. The tour begins in Uruguay from November 6 to 8. The expected turnout will bring Luján to a near standstill from the day before, with a vigil outside the basilica ahead of the papal Mass.

The archbishop warns of the social divisions the pope will find

The archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge García Cuerva, celebrated a Mass in which he addressed the country's social situation and said he was concerned about the divisions and violence affecting Argentine society. He said the pilgrimage is a symbol of unity, where "there are no ideological rifts or exclusions," and pointed to the shared desire to reach Mary's house.

García Cuerva had said earlier that the pope will find an Argentina burdened by serious social problems, where a high percentage of citizens have lived in poverty for years.