Vatican City: During the ad limina visit of the bishops of Peru to the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV called on the Latin American prelates to renew their commitment to unity, fidelity to the Gospel, and pastoral closeness, urging them to model their ministry “ad instar Apostolorum” in the manner of the Apostles.
The Pope placed the bishops’ pilgrimage within the broader context of the 300th anniversary of the canonization of Saint Toribio de Mogrovejo, patron saint of the Latin American episcopate. He reminded the assembly that their pastoral mission is a continuation of the evangelical work begun by Saint Toribio centuries ago, describing them as “the fruit of the seed he sowed in these lands.”
At the heart of Pope Leo’s message was a call to authentic communion. He stressed that the Church’s credibility today depends on the ability of its pastors to live in genuine unity, fostering bonds among themselves and with the faithful. “Our proclamation becomes credible only when it flows from sincere communion, overcoming divisions, personal ambitions, and isolation,” he said.
Drawing on the example of the early Church and Saint Toribio, the Pope emphasized that unity is not simply a matter of structure or hierarchy but a spiritual reality, rooted in shared faith, mutual support, and a common mission to serve God and His people.
Turning to the contemporary challenges facing the Peruvian Church, Pope Leo XIV called for a renewed fidelity to the Gospel, urging bishops to proclaim the Word in its fullness with courage and clarity. He cited Saint Toribio as a model: “He did not speak his own words, but faithfully entrusted the Word he received, confident in its transforming power.”
He further highlighted that the Church’s mission requires engaging with contemporary culture while preserving a clear Christian identity, offering a message that is both joyful and courageous.
Pope Leo XIV urged the bishops to embrace a ministry marked by pastoral closeness, following the example of the Apostles and Saint Paul, who “became all things to all people” for the sake of the Gospel.
“To live ad instar Apostolorum means to be present among those entrusted to our care, to walk with them, share in their struggles and joys, and pay particular attention to the most fragile and marginalized,” the Pope said.
Reflecting on his own pastoral experience in the country, Pope Leo XIV described Peru as holding “a special place in my heart.” He recalled moments of shared joy and hardship, the simplicity and faith of the people, and the resilience of the Church in facing challenges with hope.
Concluding his address, the Pontiff entrusted the bishops, clergy, religious, and all faithful of Peru to the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Mercy. He imparted his Apostolic Blessing in a particular way to those most in need of consolation and support, calling on the bishops to continue guiding the Church in Peru with dedication, compassion, and apostolic zeal.