Pope Leo XIV, shortly after his appointment as pope Bishop of Chiclayo (Peru)He made a stopover in Madrid on a trip that took him to Rome. At this time it was agreed that February 6, 2015 was the Edward Tocto's birthdaya priest from his Peruvian diocese who was studying for a degree in Canon Law at the University of Navarra. In fact, the young priest had been sent by the previous prelate, Monsignor Jesús Moliné, to complete his formation.
In a detail that reveals his close and human character, today Pope Leo XIV had no better idea than to get into a car and drive to Pamplona to present the priest with a pleasant surprise.. Curiously, they had never met before and, in a way, Prevost wanted to have a show of proximity with him as a member of his diocese.
He remembers it very well Miguel Brugarolasone of the deputy deans of the School of Theology at the University of Navarrabecause shared a table with the newcomer in a residence for priests and students of the Ecclesiastical Faculties. Of course, at that meeting there was also the birthday guest as well as Enrique Moros ClaramuntProfessor of the Ecclesiastical Faculty of Philosophy.
Without any suspicion of the fate that would befall the current Pontiff, Brugarolas discovered in him a a "very friendly and approachable" person". The professor of theology remembers his most human side of that short but endearing visit: "I didn't feel like I was eating with a bishop.". Because of the way he interacted," he notes, "he immediately empathized with his hosts in a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere that helped to maintain a cordial dialogue. "We were surprised by the affectionate detail of driving from Madrid and returning the same day. It was a great gesture.he evokes.
"We lived then two priests and two students in this small residence. And I remember that encouraged us to study and valued the studies of Canon Law and Theology.". He had never been to the University of Navarra and received from his hosts an explanation about the attendance of priests from different parts of the world to study in its Ecclesiastical Faculties. In the dialogue held, the Pope received details of the formation process that priests undergo. In fact, in the Ciudadela residence, where the meeting took place, formation activities are offered through the Priestly Society of the Holy Cross for diocesan priests "which, in some way, are nourished by the spirit of Opus Dei," explained Miguel Brugarolas.
The vice-dean of the Faculty of Theology also notes that Bishop Prevost strengthened the link established between the Theological Institute of the seminary of Chiclayo and the faculty itself. The Peruvian center itself is visited every year by professors from the University of Navarra to examine its students. "There is a close relationship with the diocese of Chiclayowhich, under Bishop Prevost, was renewed. This is an academic relationship of an affiliated institute with a faculty. The degrees that are given at that institute are endorsed by our faculty of Theology."
According to the vice-dean and professor, upon his return to his country after completing his studies in Canon Law, Edward Tocto, received "a great responsibility" from the bishop, who was kind enough to congratulate him in person. and that this Thursday gave him another pleasant surprise.
The Pope Leo XIVborn Robert Francis Prevosthas a deep and direct link with Perubuilt over more than four decades of pastoral service in the country. These are some of the key points of its relationship with Peru:
Pastoral mission in Peru
In 1985, he was sent as an Augustinian missionary to Chulucanasin the region of Piura. He developed an intense pastoral and social work in rural and marginalized communities in the north of the country.
Episcopal Service
At 2001 appointed bishop of Chiclayo by St. John Paul II. He served as bishop there for almost two decadesHe has won the affection of the people for his closeness, simplicity and commitment.
Peruvian nationality
During his time in the country, acquired Peruvian nationalityThis further deepened their integration and commitment to the local Church.
4. National impact
He was a key figure in the formation of the clergy, the promotion of religious life and the defense of human rights and social justice in various regions of Peru.
5. Recognition in Rome
His work in Peru was so remarkable that in 2023 he was recalled to Rome as a prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
