Pope Leo XIV: Monsignor Robert Prevost's leadership inspired migrants to move forward

12:28 | Chiclayo (Lambayeque region), May. 16.

For six years, the Diocese of Lambayeque witnessed tireless and loving work by the Bishop of Chiclayo, Monsignor Robert Prevost, who, through his leadership, spirituality, and commitment, transformed the reality of thousands of migrants who arrived in the northern Peruvian region.

From 2018 to 2023, his administration left an indelible mark on the community, boosting concrete actions to welcome, protect, promote, and integrate those who came in search of a better life.

A Coordinated and Close Approach

In a conversation with Andina News Agency, former coordinator of the Commission on Human Mobility and Human Trafficking, Yolanda Diaz Callirgos, gratefully recalled how Monsignor Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was always present, listening and managing resources to meet the most urgent needs of migrants.

"Under his guidance, the commission coordinated efforts with institutions such as Migraciones (the National Superintendence of Migrations), the Ombudsman's Office, Caritas, and various NGOs like Save the Children, ensuring that actions were not duplicated and that each initiative responded to the real priorities of migrants," said Diaz Callirgos, who worked with Monsignor between 2018 and 2020.

Actions That Made a Difference

Among the achievements are the creation of shelters, soup kitchens, and immigration regularization programs that benefited between 3,000 and 4,000 people in Lambayeque region.

The migrant pastoral ministry, strengthened by Monsignor Robert's vision, promoted educational inclusion, helping children and youth not to lose school years, and facilitated access to decent jobs, improving the living conditions of many families.

A Synodal and Committed Church

The bishop, known for his serenity, firmness, and approachability, fostered unity and joint action.

Yolanda Diaz highlights how his Augustinian spirituality and sensitivity for the poor inspired the entire ecclesial community to embody closeness and solidarity.

"In critical moments, such as the pandemic, his leadership was key in organizing aid campaigns, including the acquisition of oxygen plants that saved lives," she emphasized.

A Legacy of Planting and Waiting for the Harvest

The story of Monsignor Robert Prevost in Lambayeque region is an example of how faith and concrete action can transform realities.

Yolanda Diaz shares an inspiring anecdote that reflects his philosophy of perseverance and hope in collective work.

During a meeting, Diaz recounted how, on one occasion, she faced a very difficult situation in her social work.

Diaz explained that after dedicating long hours to attending to, responding to, and channeling aid for migrants in different parishes, she felt her effort was still not enough.

She only had the support of a few parishes, such as the Vianey Parish with Father Luis Santa Maria and the Reque Parish with Father Pedro Vazquez, as well as the Vincentians who took on the migrant pastoral ministry.

At that moment, Diaz expressed her frustration, saying that she felt they were doing very little and that the situation required broader commitment from the entire Church.

Then, she went to meet with Monsignor Robert Prevost, who, with his usual calm and serenity, replied: "Yolanda, remember that we are sowing."

The message he conveyed was clear: changes and results are not seen overnight. The work of sowing, of doing things right, and of persevering in the process is fundamental to achieving lasting impact.

This anecdote reflects Yolanda Diaz's philosophy that constant effort and patience are essential to achieve meaningful change in the community and in society at large.

Teamwork and Inspiration for All

The coordinated work with the community, parishes, institutions, and lay people has made it possible to build a solid support network for migrants.

This experience shows that, with committed leadership and active faith, it is possible to generate deep and lasting change.

(END) SDC/MAO/JMP/MVB

Published: 5/16/2025

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