Archive · 6 Oct 2026
Peruvian Inmates Sew Pope Dolls Ahead of Leo’s Visit
Women in a prison in Lima are sewing dolls with Pope Leo’s face.
They are also making jewelry to sell.
The work is part of a program that helps inmates learn useful skills and prepare to return to society.
Seventy-eight women are taking part.
Some say making things helps them feel less bored and lets them support their families.
Pope Leo is due to visit South America from November 6 to 17.
The women hope he will come to their prison and give them a blessing.
Peru is the final stop on his trip.
Women at Lima’s Chorrillos Women’s Prison are making Pope Leo dolls and beaded jewelry ahead of his November 6–17 South American trip.
The workshop is part of Peru’s “productive prisons” program, which aims to support inmates’ reintegration into society.
Seventy-eight inmates make items including $9 stuffed toys and bracelets for sale outside the prison.
Inmates say the work offers vocational skills, distraction, and a way to support their families from afar.
The prison warden said the inmates hope Pope Leo will visit and bless them.
- Who
- Seventy-eight inmates at Chorrillos Women’s Prison, including Nanny and Judith Vargas.
- What
- The inmates are making Pope Leo dolls and beaded jewelry for sale ahead of his South American visit.
- When
- The report is dated October 5; Pope Leo’s trip is scheduled for November 6–17.
- Where
- Chorrillos Women’s Prison in Lima, Peru.
- Why
- The work is part of a program intended to support inmates’ reintegration and gives them skills and a way to earn money for their families.
- Prison
- Chorrillos Women’s Prison, Lima
- Participants
- 78 inmates
- Products
- Pope dolls, bracelets, and other beaded jewelry
- Toy price
- $9 for a stuffed toy
- Pope Leo’s trip
- November 6–17
- Tour stops
- Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru; Peru is the final stop
- Program
- Peru’s “productive prisons” program