Cartago: Costa Rica’s newly elected President Laura Fernandez officially began her administration with the celebration of Holy Mass, giving a strong public witness to her Christian faith before taking office.
Fernandez, a committed Catholic believer and representative of the Pueblo Soberano Party, attended the Eucharistic celebration along with other elected leaders at the famous Marian pilgrimage shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago. The shrine is one of the most important Catholic centres in the Central American nation.
After the Mass, the new president offered her presidential sash at the church altar as a symbolic act of entrusting her leadership and the country to God.
Bishop Javier Roman was the main celebrant of the liturgy. Several members of the incoming administration also participated in the Mass and prayers before the official beginning of the new government.
In his homily, Bishop Roman reminded the leaders that public responsibility cannot be carried out by human strength alone. He spoke about the many challenges facing Costa Rica, including violence, insecurity, drug trafficking and a rising murder rate. The bishop prayed that the country’s new leaders would receive wisdom, courage and good judgement in governing the nation.
Laura Fernandez has openly spoken about her Catholic faith throughout her political journey. During the election weekend, a photograph of her prayerfully attending Sunday Mass became widely shared on social media and drew attention across the country.
The president has repeatedly said that she is proud of her Catholic identity. She explained that she attends Holy Mass whenever possible on Sundays, not for political advantage, but because of her genuine personal faith and devotion.
Her election campaign strongly focused on moral values and Christian principles. Fernandez often highlighted the importance of faith, family values and ethical leadership while addressing supporters during the campaign period.
Soon after the election results confirmed her victory, Fernandez publicly thanked God for the outcome. In a message filled with religious conviction, she said, “Thank you, God. Today, before You, I surrender myself and place Costa Rica into Your hands.”
Her decision to begin her presidency with prayer and worship has received attention both within Costa Rica and among Christian communities in other countries. Many believers viewed the event as a reminder of the continuing importance of faith in public life and leadership.
Costa Rica remains one of the countries in Latin America where Catholic traditions continue to hold a visible place in national culture and public ceremonies. Fernandez’s inauguration day reflected that tradition while also highlighting her own personal commitment to the Church and Christian values.