Digging Deep into Pope Leo XIV's Affinity for Peru and its Delights
Pope Leo XIV expressed his fondness for Peru and its national dish, Ceviche. - Pope Leo XIV expresses fondness for Peru and its traditional dish, Ceviche.
Say hello to Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born Pontiff, who is no stranger to South American soil! Given his religious title, you might expect a lifetime spent in Vatican halls, but think again. This Pope has quite a unique background, one that includes over two decades spent in Peru during his formative years.
In 2023, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected Pope, but there's more to the man than meets the eye. Despite his US birthplace, Cardinal Prevost calls Peru his second home due to the sheer amount of time he invested in the country. The cardinals who chose him as the 270th Pope can attest to this, as he also carries Peruvian citizenship.
Leo's love affair with Peru became apparent in his inaugural address as Pope, spoken in Spanish and filled with praises for his "adored diocese of Chiclayo." Bishop Miguel Angel Farfan, his predecessor in Chiclayo, reinforced this notion, revealing snaps of the Pope galloping on a horse while in Peru.
Farfan also recounted Prevost's beginnings in Peru, where he arrived as a newly-minted university grad and missionary in the northern city of Chulucanas. His journey eventually led him to Trujillo, followed by the bustling hub of Chiclayo.
Leo's connection to Peru is rooted in more than just geography. His life has been dedicated to the Peruvian mission, and much like his predecessor Francis, his heart beats for the downtrodden and impoverished. This commitment has been consistent throughout his career, even during politically turbulent times in the '80s and '90s.
In his time as the Bishop of Chiclayo, Leo made a crucial impact on the region, particularly by addressing child malnutrition and supporting social initiatives. When it comes to embracing diverse cultures, Pope Leo XIV is a prime example, embracing Peruvian traditions with open arms.
As for his affinity for ceviche, while specific statements about the Pope's personal love for this traditional Peruvian dish aren't found in the search results, it's reasonable to assume that living and working in coastal Chiclayo immersed him in the region's culinary culture. As such, it's not far-fetched to believe that the good Pope likely relishes Peruvian delights, including ceviche.
- Pope Leo XIV, despite his time spent in Vatican halls, has a unique background with over two decades spent in Peru during his formative years.
- In 2023, the new Pope, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, also carries Peruvian citizenship due to the time he invested in the country.
- During his time as Bishop of Chiclayo, Pope Leo XIV made a significant impact on the region, particularly by addressing child malnutrition and supporting social initiatives.
- Given his prolonged exposure to Peruvian culture and cuisine in coastal Chiclayo, it's reasonable to assume that Pope Leo XIV enjoys traditional Peruvian dishes, such as ceviche.
