Prior Provincial Visits to Augustinian Vicariate in Peru

In late September and early October, Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., visited the Augustinian Vicariate of Chulucanas and Iquitos in Peru.  

Fr. Pizzo first visited the Vicariate of Chulucanas in Peru from 16-20, as they held their Intermediate Chapter in Lima. Fr. Pizzo designated Fr. Richie Mercado to be the President of the Chapter.   

The Intermediate Vicariate Chapter always takes place two years after the Ordinary Vicariate Chapter, which happens every 4 years. The last Ordinary Vicariate Chapter was in 2022.  

The friars spent the week discussing matters pertaining to the ministries, organization, and future plans of the Vicariate. They also spent time in prayer and fellowship.  

Following the Intermediate Chapter in Lima, Fr. Pizzo traveled to the Augustinian Vicariate of Iquitos (Amazon) of Peru from Septer 29 through October 4. He participated in the inauguration of the annual “Mes Morado” or the Purple Month in honor of Peru’s religious patron, El Señor de los Milagros (The Lord of Miracles).    

El Señor de los Milagros is the patron saint of Peruvians and Immigrants. Mes Morado is an annual celebration during the month of October and is celebrated by many Peruvian Catholics.    

The sacred celebration honors the image of the Cristo Moreno (Brown Christ) that survived the 1655 earthquake in Lima.  The entire church structure collapsed, except for a painted image of the Crucifixion. It was painted by an African slave, demonstrating his devotion to the Crucified Lord.    

The Peruvian Church and several other Latin American countries honor this sacred image of Christ. Fr. Walker Davila, O.S.A., led the prayer and blessing at the high school where he teaches religion, Colegio I.E.P.P.S. Rosa Agustina Donayre De Morey.  

Fr. Pizzo also spent time on his trip leading classroom discussions with high school aged students about culture and diversity.