Pope Leo XIV issued a call today to the bishops of Peru, urging them not to stop walking with the people. The appeal was made during a meeting held in the chapel of the Archbishop's Palace in Lima, on the second day of his apostolic visit to Peru.
"Do not stop walking with the people; let us not stop walking together, in episcopal communion, as witnesses to the unity we proclaim," the Holy Father stated in his address.
Furthermore, the Pontiff called upon the bishops to keep their hearts open—open to God, to renew their vocation; open to their brothers, to heal divisions; and open to the people, so that the faithful may find in them a bishop who is a father—approachable, courageous, and merciful.
He emphasized that today’s Peru needs shepherds capable of listening to the questions of the times, accompanying families, supporting young people, defending life and human dignity, promoting justice, and assisting those who suffer from poverty.
"Our mission as bishops requires us to be builders of bridges, to foster dialogue, to educate for encounter, and to help heal the wounds that divide Peruvian society. To be capable of this, opening our hearts is essential," Leo XIV stressed.
Additionally, he asked them to continue working with steadfastness, in close collaboration with the people.
At another point, the Pope addressed the issue of abuses committed by members of the clergy or within an ecclesial context—abuses "that have caused us so much pain."
"We must respond as Jesus would—with truth, justice, forgiveness, reparation, and an ever-firmer commitment to a culture of prevention and protection for the most vulnerable against these crimes," the Holy Father stated.
More from Andina:
(END) VVS/CCR / MDV
Published: 11/12/2026