Along the Pacific coast of South America lies Lima—Peru’s largest city. With just over 11 million residents, the city is home to one-third of the nation’s population, making it the economic, social, and cultural hub.
The capital city, established in 1535, is also called “the City of Kings” to commemorate its founding around Jan. 6, the same day as Epiphany. Widely celebrated across Peru, the holiday marks the three kings visiting Jesus after His birth.
Religiosity, however, is rapidly declining throughout Lima—and the whole country.
“Many people believe in God … but do not have a personal relationship with Jesus,” said Lilibeth Ramón, a children’s teacher at Iglesia Pentecostal Nueva Jerusalén. “[People] are emotionally exhausted—they have no peace, and the rates of suicide, alcoholism, and drug addiction have risen.”
In 2025, 28% of Peruvians were living in poverty, especially in rural communities. And 1 in 15 adults struggle with depression, while 20% of those also battle alcohol abuse.
“People have already tried almost everything … but what they have not tried is living hope—which gives true meaning and purpose to life—which is Jesus Christ,” said Samuel Reategui, pastor at Betania Baptist Church.
Despite an openness to hearing the Gospel, only 14% of Peru’s population would call themselves born-again Christians.
In 1998, Franklin Graham held a three-day Festival at Peru’s National Stadium. The event sparked hope in a country that was in the midst of violent terrorism and an uncertain presidential campaign.
It also left a lasting impact on Peru, which paved the way for Graham to return for Esperanza Lima on March 7–8. The outreach was initially planned for one day, but the overwhelming response from more than 2,400 pastors and 700 churches during last summer’s launch event led to the addition of a second date.
Ramón knows that the Bible is accessible to everyone in her city, but many still haven’t heard the Good News. She’s eager for Graham to share the Gospel in a straightforward way that anyone can understand.
“We will all be in one place with people of different ages, different socioeconomic levels, and different levels of education,” she said. “People who have never attended church will hear this message of salvation, forgiveness, and opportunity.”
Many Peruvian churches are preparing for the Festival by partnering with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to hold the Christian Life and Witness Course. Designed to strengthen believers’ faith and help them share it practically and effectively with others, the training also equips them to serve as prayer volunteers at the Festival. Thousands of people have already participated, and more will take it in the days to come.
“You [could] feel the excitement of the pastors when they saw such a complete program [for] their churches—whether large or small—[to] be part of Esperanza Lima,” said Ramón.
Graham is bringing the hope of Jesus Christ to Peru at a time when people are searching for purpose, comfort, and answers. Ramón hopes this event will impact her nation, for generations to come.
“Everyone is looking forward to what God will do in Lima,” said Pastor Reategui. “The real campaign begins when the evangelistic activity in the stadium ends—with the discipleship of new believers.”
Please pray for the people of Lima to open their hearts to the Gospel. Ask God to strengthen believers as they prepare for Esperanza Lima and invite their loved ones to the upcoming Festival.
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