00:00 | Chiclayo (Lambayeque region), May. 20.
The presence of Pope Leo XIV in Peru's northern Lambayeque region left an indelible mark on the community and on those who had the opportunity to know Robert Prevost closely, who was bishop of Chiclayo for eight years.
One of the most moving stories is the one testified by
Luis Reque, a member of the Feria Committee of the Divine Child of the Miracle of Ciudad Eten, who recalls the visit of the
former bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo —now Pope Leo XIV— and his connection with the popular devotion to the Divine Child of Eten, where his spirit of work and closeness are still felt.
Reque indicated that during his stay in this locality, Pope Leo XIV placed a crown and a cape on the Divine Child of the Miracle, which are still preserved as symbols of his passage to the area.
"The original crown and the cape, dating from July 2023, represent a living memory of that special moment," he said.
This very special recollection shared by the fair committee member —and confirmed by Pope Leo XIV— recounts how, once, as part of the responsibilities for the Holy Week reenactment, they received a visit from the Pope at the local parish.
Amid rehearsals, the Pope observed attentively and contemplatively the procession of the Flagellation of Jesus Christ, showing deep respect and empathy for popular devotion.
"It is fine, but I will pray for you," the Pope said to us.
"I believe it is another form of evangelization that motivates the youth," Reque affirmed.
Likewise, the then-bishop of Chiclayo took the opportunity to offer his greetings and express his support, leaving a mark on those of us present.
A photograph was also taken at that moment, which today stands as a symbol of that spiritual connection.
In turn, the parish priest of the parish Santa Maria Magdalena in Ciudad Eten, Reverend Daniel Principe, fondly recalled the Pope's closeness.
"As people from Chiclayo, we all had some connection with him. We worked shoulder to shoulder; and his tireless spirit of service and friendship was something we deeply valued. Here in Ciudad Eten, he officiated Masses and shared moments of tribute with the community, especially during the patron saint festivities dedicated to the Divine Child, a devotion that transcends borders in northern Peru," he emphasized in dialogue with Andina News Agency.
Father Daniel also highlighted the importance of keeping that devotion alive: "Pope Leo XIV was a promoter of popular devotions. He left us a legacy of faith and hope, and we hope that from the Vatican he will continue to bless and support this fervent devotion that means so much to our people."
Lastly, the parish priest expressed his hope that, from his position in the Vatican, the Pope will continue to send messages of faith and hope, strengthening the devotion to the Divine Child and keeping hope alive in every heart.
(END) SDC/MAO/JMP/MVB
Published: 5/20/2025