01:00 | Chiclayo (Lambayeque region), May. 8.
As the first anniversary of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate is commemorated on May 8, reflections are emerging from Peru's northern Lambayeque region on the challenges and expectations that will shape the Catholic Church's course in this new stage.
Speaking to Andina News Agency, David Farfan Guerrero, parish priest of Santo Toribio Church in Zaña, said the Supreme Pontiff has begun his leadership with a clear hallmark: closeness to people, transparency, and firmness in proclaiming the Gospel, qualities that —he noted— the Pope had already demonstrated during his time in Peru.
"He has a very clear understanding of the methodology of seeing, judging, and acting. He has already observed the reality of the world; in some cases he will continue discerning, but in others he is already acting decisively," Guerrero said.
According to the priest, the Pope has wasted no time in taking an active stance toward the Church's challenges, reaffirming his identity as a "missionary of the Gospel" and prioritizing truth as the central axis of his message.
A Pontificate with a Peruvian imprint
Farfan stressed that Leo XIV's leadership has a deep connection with Peru, not only because of his decision to identify with the country, but because of the pastoral experience he gained in rural and vulnerable areas.
"It is Peru's time. He has closely experienced our realities, especially in places such as the north, where he lived and worked with communities facing major difficulties. His bond with Santo Toribio is profound," he stated.
Father Farfan also reiterated the Pope's special relationship with the South American country, noting that despite his U.S. origin, he chose to identify with Peru and developed much of his pastoral reflection in territories such as the north.
This connection—he added—is reflected in his social sensitivity and his approach toward a Church more committed to the most vulnerable communities.
Global challenges and a call to faith
The priest remarked that the first year of the pontificate has likewise been marked by complex global challenges, amid which the Pope has constantly asked for the spiritual support of the faithful.
"The Holy Father is facing major problems and that is why he constantly calls for prayers from the entire Church. He is aware of the responsibility involved in guiding millions of people in a difficult context," he stated.
Furthermore, the parish priest highlighted that honesty, closeness, and consistency will be key in this new stage, values that — according to him — the Pontiff has maintained since before assuming the Church's highest office.
He even recalled that before assuming higher positions within the Church, the Pontiff visited Zaña district and maintained a special devotion to the saint, celebrating his feast day for years.
Call for civic responsibility
Finally, Farfan called on the population, especially in Chiclayo, to assume a more responsible role regarding the image projected by the country, considering the international visibility Peru has gained following the Pope's election.
He recalled that Leo XIV himself has insisted that change does not depend solely on authorities, but also on citizens' daily actions.
"It is not only about demanding, but about acting. From the simplest things, such as respecting the rules or taking care of the environment, we all have a role in building a better society," he concluded.
As is known, Pope Leo XIV was born in the United States but also holds Peruvian nationality.
(END) SDC/MAO/MVB
Published: 5/8/2026