Chiclayo, Peru – Walkiria Garcia was 14 years old when she confirmed at the Catholic Church, an already significant religious sacrament became even more unforgettable for the man who officiated him, Robert Prevost, who a decade later would become Pope Leo XIV.
For many Peruvians, however, Leo is more than the first US Pope, he is also the first Peruvian pope.
Pope Leo, born on the south side of Chicago, arrived in Peru for the first time in 1985 as a missionary. For 10 years, he taught the canonical law in Trujillo, plunging into the culture and the local community.
Although he returned to Chicago to lead the Agostinian Order in the center -oeste, he could not stay away for long. In 2014, he moved to Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as apostolic administrator, bishop and then archbishop. He even became a naturalized Peruvian citizen in 2015.
Now Garcia has a message for the new pontiff: “Don’t change.”
Garcia, now 24, remembers her first meeting with Leo at her Augustinian school, saying that she felt that he was more a friend than an authority figure.
This is because Leo was “fun” and was often seen playing with students, and talking to them about religious topics.
Garcia said the former Bishop shared messages of love and opening with the students, according to their Augustinian beliefs.
“We can always return and we can always change our lives,” said Garcia.
Leo’s deep bond with the Peruvians is rooted in his hug from his customs. Garcia remembers with love to see him at cultural festivals, serving food and participating in traditions. “He was Peruvian,” said Garcia.
In his first speech as Pope, Leo expressed gratitude to the people of Chiclayo, highlighting the influence of the city on his journey.
Garcia connected with Leo again at a casual meeting during a 2021 flight, where they recalled her confirmation and school days.
Garcia expects Leo “to follow the message of Francis”, continuing to “love all people” and embrace members of the LGBTQ community. She would like to see him continue her work with children and young adults, just as he did in Chiclayo.
“He is our first Peruvian pope,” said Garcia.
Stephanie Gosk reported in Chiclayo, Peru, and Viola Flowers reported in New York City.