09:12 | Chiclayo (Lambayeque region), Aug. 5.
The return of
Pope Leo XIV's personal secretary, Monsignor Edgard Rimaycuna, to Chiclayo (Lambayeque) has sparked great excitement and interest among the local faithful, who were reunited with the priest in an atmosphere filled with affection.
The clergyman arrived in the northern Peruvian city to spend a few days on vacation with his parents and siblings, who reside in Chiclayo's La Victoria district.
However, his presence has already become a special occasion for hundreds of faithful who remember his closeness and the strong bond he maintains with the Catholic Church in the aforementioned city.
During his stay, the priest has been warmly received by friends, neighbors, and Catholic community members, who greeted him enthusiastically and welcomed him back to the place where his priestly vocation was born.
Shortly before noon on Tuesday, His Holiness' chaplain passed by the front of St. Mary's Cathedral in Chiclayo.
When approached by an Andina News Agency correspondent, he apologized for not being able to make any statements.
However, friends and the faithful approached him to express their affection and welcome him back to the City of Friendship.
As on previous visits, he is expected to preside over Eucharistic celebrations at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in La Victoria, allowing the faithful to spend time with one of the Holy Father's closest collaborators.
His return also brings back memories of one of the most significant moments experienced by the Catholic community in Lambayeque region in August 2025.
At that time, Monsignor Rimaycuna arrived from Rome carrying the papal mitre, a gift sent by Pope Leo XIV to the Diocese of Chiclayo, where he served as bishop before being elected Supreme Pontiff.
The vestment was presented during a well-attended Mass held outside St. Joseph the Worker Parish, a ceremony that symbolized the Pope's enduring closeness and affection for the people of Chiclayo.
At that historic celebration, Monsignor Rimaycuna conveyed the Holy Father's greetings and blessing, recalling a phrase that moved those in attendance: "Chiclayo is in the Pope's heart."
During his homily, the monsignor urged the faithful to pray continually for Pope Leo XIV.
He said the diocese had received a special gift, noting that this privilege carries a greater commitment to faith, solidarity, and service to one's neighbor.
Messages of encouragement
The Pope's personal secretary shared several anecdotes illustrating the Pontiff's simplicity and closeness, revealing that even from Rome he kept in touch with priests in Chiclayo to send them messages of encouragement, congratulations, and prayers.
He explained that it was Pope Leo XIV himself who decided to donate the papal mitre to St. Joseph the Worker Parish as a sign of the deep affection he continues to hold for the community where he carried out his pastoral ministry for several years.
The ceremony brought together authorities, priests, and hundreds of faithful. It concluded with a tribute presented by the District Municipality of La Victoria.
Mayor Edwin Vasquez presented the district's medal to Monsignor Edgard Rimaycuna in recognition of his distinguished pastoral ministry and his service at the Holy See.
With humility, His Holiness' chaplain said the distinction also belonged to the people of La Victoria, who had accompanied him on his vocational journey.
Hope and enthusiasm
Monsignor Edgard Rimaycuna's latest visit to Chiclayo has renewed the local Catholic community's hope and enthusiasm during a special year marked by anticipation of Pope Leo XIV's announced visit to Peru.
His presence strengthens the spiritual bond between Chiclayo and the Vatican, reflecting the Holy Father's enduring affection for this northern city.
The faith of its people remains one of the greatest legacies of his time in the Diocese of Chiclayo.
(END) SDC/JOT/MVB
Publicado: 5/8/2026