The brethren in Peru were overjoyed at the election of Pope Leo - a much-loved bishop according to those who knew him. His words from the balcony in Spanish touched them greatly.
Although Belmont's foundation is just south of Lima, three monks of the community are from Chiclayo, Pope Leo’s former diocese in the north of Peru, including the Prior Dom Alex Echandia.
Dom Miguel Rimarachin was studying at the Seminary in Chiclayo when he first met Bishop Robert. He observed: “He treated everyone with warmth and interest and took time to speak to each of us, to enquire about our progress. He was very down to earth but spoke with passion about evangelising and the church. His love for the church, especially here in Peru was palpable.”
A special memory was Bishop Robert’s visit for priestly ordinations. It happened to coincide with Dom Miguel’s birthday. “The Rector of the seminary told Bishop Robert about it being my birthday. He spontaneously hugged me and encouraged me to be faithful to my vocation. When you met Bishop Robert, you always felt very motivated and conscious of the gift of vocation.”
