Pope Leo XIV symbolically present at Lima's National Holidays Mass with bust

A bust of Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff of Peruvian nationality, held a symbolic presence at the Solemn Mass and Te Deum celebration for Peru's National Holidays in Lima Cathedral. The tribute honored the Pope's deep connection to Peru, the nation where he carried out much of his missionary work before assuming leadership of the Catholic Church.

The artwork, created by Peruvian sculptor Raúl Efraín Franco Ochoa, was meticulously crafted using high-resolution photographs and videos of the Pope's public appearances. Franco Ochoa began the sculpture on May 8, the day Leo XIV was presented after his election as the 267th pontiff. This piece is considered the first sculpture created in his honor, modeled in clay for facial accuracy and officially unveiled on June 29, 2025.

The presence of the bust also recalled the pastoral journey of Robert Francis Prevost Martínez, now Pope Leo XIV, in Peru. He arrived in 1985 and served in various regions, including Chulucanas, Trujillo, Iquitos, and Apurímac. During his time there, he engaged in pastoral, social, and religious initiatives and contributed to the establishment of new parishes, experiences that significantly shaped his ministry and strengthened his bond with the country.

The ceremony brought together state authorities, Church representatives, and various national institutions, underscoring the significance of the Pope's Peruvian heritage and his extensive pastoral experience within the country prior to his global role in the Catholic Church.