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Following the election of Pope Leo XIV, many Peruvian Catholics residing in the United States have expressed their joy and hope for his papacy. Pope Leo, originally Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, has strong ties to Peru, having served in various roles within the country for nearly two decades. His ministry focused on serving and defending vulnerable communities.
Rocío Baracco, a Peruvian living in Falls Church, Virginia, was moved when Pope Leo mentioned Peru's Diocese of Chiclayo during his speech. She said, "When I got home, I was crying with emotion … because imagine! A pope who loves your country so much! And that he mentioned it in his speech."
Pope Leo's background includes American birth and Peruvian adoption. Baracco noted the dual citizenship of the Chicago-born pope as a point of interest amid rumors about his nationality. Many Peruvians are now learning more about his work and dedication to those most in need.
Iluminada Vilca from Rochester, New York, also shared her excitement upon discovering Pope Leo had served in her grandmother’s hometown of Chiclayo. "I didn’t know much about him," she said after researching his background.
Father Bruno Mauricci from Nevada recalled meeting Pope Leo briefly during his time teaching at a seminary in Trujillo. He described him as "a very kind, very holy man — one of those who are very calm and smiling."
In Los Angeles and other U.S. cities with significant Peruvian populations, there have been celebrations and Masses to give thanks for Pope Leo's election. Ivonne Castro from Los Angeles expressed confidence in Pope Leo's leadership: "He’s the leader that the church needs at this moment."
The sentiments are echoed by other communities across the U.S., including Paterson, New Jersey. Martha Anci emphasized unity under Pope Leo's leadership: "God has sent you because we need unity." The Diocese of Paterson held Masses celebrating his election.
Sister Fabiola Valdeiglesias and Sister Leann Luecke from Minnesota highlighted God's providence in electing Pope Leo quickly. Sister Leann remarked on trusting God’s guidance for the new pope.
Marietha Góngora V., Mike Cisneros, and Yoel Gonzalez contributed to this report on behalf of OSV News.
