The city of Chiclayo, Peru, is celebrating the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Bishop Robert Francis Prevost, with heartfelt joy. Bishop Edinson Edgardo Farfán Córdova, the current Bishop of Chiclayo, shared his reaction in a video message on Instagram, saying, “It is a great joy that God has chosen a simple and humble shepherd, who is always close to his people: a man who has walked with us, and who carries us in his heart.”
Pope Leo XIV’s deep connection to Peru dates back to the 1980s when he first arrived as a young missionary with the Order of St. Augustine. He spent years working in the region, known for his approachable style and personal commitment to serving the most vulnerable. His experiences in Peru deeply shaped his pastoral approach, grounding his leadership in close relationships with the faithful and a strong sense of community.
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After returning to the United States, Prevost continued to rise through the ranks of the Church, but his bond with Peru remained strong. In 2014, he was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, a role he held until 2023. During his time there, he became a beloved figure, known for his hands-on approach, frequent visits to remote parishes, and his presence during times of crisis, including natural disasters.
In 2015, in recognition of his deep ties to the country, he became a Peruvian citizen, a rare honor that reflected his lasting commitment to the people he served. This connection was highlighted during his first address as pope, when he spoke directly to the people of Chiclayo in Spanish, thanking them for their support and prayers throughout his journey.
As the first American-born pope with dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship, his election has sparked pride in both his native and adopted countries. His leadership style, marked by humility, directness, and a profound pastoral sensitivity, has been widely praised, aligning closely with the style of his predecessors who emphasized a “Church of the poor.”
For the faithful in Chiclayo, his papacy represents a deeply personal connection to the Vatican, a reminder that the global Church remains rooted in local communities. As the celebrations continue, many in Chiclayo express hope that their former bishop will carry the spirit of their city into his new role as leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.
