Pope Leo XIV's Upcoming Visit Inspires Vast Pilgrimage to Luján by Argentine Faithful

Thousands of pilgrims across Argentina made their way to the shrine of the Virgin of Luján, undertaking a demanding 60-kilometer journey from Buenos Aires this past Sunday. The pilgrimage gains special significance as it comes just over a month before Pope Leo XIV is set to visit the site.

As dawn broke, the imposing towers of the neo-Gothic basilica emerged from the mist, welcoming a sea of faithful who participated in what is one of Argentina's most cherished religious celebrations. Many pilgrims, exhausted yet elated, rested on the pavements, some treating their swollen feet while they waited for fellow believers to join them.

Among them was Alexis Vaquer, a 42-year-old IT professional who arrived at the shrine emotionally charged after nearly 20 hours of walking. "We came with my wife to ask for something, and the Virgin granted our wish," Vaquer shared, tears in his eyes. He elaborated that he faced a leg injury during the trek, relying on a walking stick, but was uplifted by strangers who encouraged him when he doubted his ability to continue.

An Inclusive Gathering

During a Mass held at the basilica, Jorge García Cuerva, the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, emphasized the unifying nature of the pilgrimage, stating, "On the pilgrimage there are no ideological divisions or exclusions; the road levelled us all." This year marks the 52nd annual Youth Pilgrimage to Luján, which commenced on Saturday amidst rainy conditions, with officials estimating an attendance of two million people.

The significance of this year's pilgrimage is heightened as Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to hold a concluding Mass at the basilica on November 11, a key event before he continues on his itinerary that includes stops in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and the Cottolengo Don Orione center in Claypole. Notably, this will mark the first papal visit to Luján since John Paul II's presence in 1982, during a tumultuous time in the nation.

Vaquer reflected on the importance of this visit, suggesting it serves as a sort of remedy for the absence of Pope Francis, who passed away in 2025. The emotional weight of the pilgrimage coupled with the anticipation of the pope’s arrival amplifies the shared experience among participants.

Another pilgrim, Anabela García, a teacher leading a group of young people, arrived at Luján hauling a cart featuring a statue of the Virgin and a guitar slung over her shoulder. She expressed how emotionally charged she felt about the impending papal visit, deeming it "spectacular" and "historically important."

The Virgin of Luján: A Living Legacy

The Virgin of Luján, whose devotion dates back to 1630, represents a symbol of faith deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Argentina. According to tradition, a landowner commissioned an image of the Virgin from Brazil, but during its transportation, the oxen pulling the cart refused to move on until the crate containing the statue was unloaded along the banks of the Luján River. This moment was interpreted as a divine sign, leading to the establishment of a pilgrimage site.

Throughout the Mass, the basilica continually welcomed hundreds of faithful who wished to approach the revered image of the Virgin, climbing the steps with varying degrees of effort. The atmosphere was charged with devotion, underscored by moments of joy like a young couple's engagement, captured amidst the crowd.

As of 2019, about 62.9 percent of Argentina's population identifies as Catholic, highlighting the significant role religion plays in the nation’s identity. This pilgrimage is not just an act of personal faith; it’s a powerful communal expression that has endured through generations, drawing together pilgrims united in hope and devotion.