'God Loves Peru': Peru Celebrates New Pope
In a moment of personal connection during his first speech as pope, Leo XIV paused halfway through his Italian address to greet his beloved Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru. With a smile, he said, “A greeting to all, and especially to my dear Diocese of Chiclayo, in Peru.”
The appointment of the first American pope, a Peruvian citizen, is a source of national pride for Peru. Born in Chicago in 1955, Robert Prevost, who became a Peruvian citizen in 2015, had a lifelong connection to the country. His work between the US and Peru, spanning nearly three decades, left an indelible mark on the country's Catholic communities.
Peruvians have embraced the news with immense pride. “For us Peruvians, it is a source of pride that this is a pope who represents our country,” said Isabel Panez, an elementary school teacher in Lima. In recognition of his strong ties to Peru, Prevost often referred to the country as "mi segunda patria," or "my second homeland."
Prevost’s journey in Peru began in 1985 when he arrived in Chulucanas as part of the Augustinian mission. Over the years, his life became intertwined with Peru's religious and cultural fabric. His appointment as bishop of Chiclayo in 2014 solidified his role in the country. By then, his affection for Peru was well-known, with many recalling his tireless work during the pandemic to provide life-saving oxygen plants.
Notable figures, including President Dina Boluarte, have recognized Prevost’s commitment to the country. “The pope is Peruvian by choice and conviction. God loves Peru,” she remarked.
Despite the celebration, Prevost’s tenure has not been without controversy. Accusations surfaced in 2023 from three women who claimed that Prevost, during his time as bishop, failed to properly address sexual abuse allegations made against two priests in Chiclayo. While church officials noted an investigation had been launched, the case has raised concerns for the newly appointed pope as he steps into his global role.
As he assumes the papacy, Prevost’s legacy in Peru remains significant, deeply shaped by the country's people and their values. "Chiclayo is a city that greatly values the simple faith of its people,” said Edinson Farfán, the current bishop of Chiclayo. “It’s his beloved diocese, it’s his life. He learned here everything he can share and will share with the entire world."
Prevost’s appointment signals a turning point for Peru, a country still grappling with social challenges, but hopeful for the impact of their new pope. As Thomas Nicolini, a Peruvian student in Rome, shared, “Chiclayo is one of the regions that needs lots of hope. So, now I’m expecting that the new pope helps as many people as possible.”
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