On May 9, just one day after assuming the presidency of Costa Rica, Laura Fernández Delgado went to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago to participate in a Eucharistic celebration. Accompanied by her team, the president wanted to make clear from the very beginning that her administration would be guided by faith and devotion to the country's patron saint, affectionately known as "La Negrita."
The most significant moment of the day came when the president placed her presidential sash at the feet of the image of the Virgin. This act, full of symbolism, represented the fulfillment of a personal promise and the surrender of her service and the future of the nation to divine protection. It was not a mere protocol gesture, but a statement of principles: her government would be under the protection of the Mother of God.
The homily: power as service and the need for God
The Mass was presided over by Monsignor Javier Román, Bishop of Limón and President of the Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica. In his homily, the prelate offered a deep reflection on the exercise of public power and the importance of humility and dependence on God for those who have the responsibility to govern.
The insufficiency of human strength
Monsignor Román recalled that there are burdens and governmental decisions that cannot be sustained without God's help. Citing Scripture, he said:
"'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty" (Zechariah 4:6, NIV).The bishop emphasized that leaders, no matter how capable, face challenges that exceed their human abilities. Therefore, he invited the president and her team to constantly seek divine wisdom in decision-making.
Power as service, not as domination
Another central point of the homily was the conception of power as service. Monsignor Román recalled the words of Jesus:
"You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them... Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant" (Matthew 20:25-26, NIV).The bishop urged the president to govern with humility, putting the needs of the people above personal or partisan interests. He stressed that true Christian leadership is measured by the ability to serve, not by the power one holds.
The importance of prayer in public life
Finally, the prelate encouraged those present to make prayer a fundamental pillar in government management. He said that prayer is not an act of weakness, but of wisdom, because it recognizes that there are forces greater than human ones. He cited the example of the psalms, where King David constantly sought God in the midst of his battles and decisions.
A commitment to the nation from faith
President Fernández Delgado not only participated in the Eucharist but also signed a public commitment to govern with honesty, justice, and transparency, inspired by Christian values. This act is not isolated in the history of Costa Rica, a country where the Catholic faith has been deeply rooted in public life. However, the new administration seeks to give a renewed sense to that tradition, integrating spirituality into political decision-making.
"You cannot govern without a solid ethical foundation, and for me that foundation is my faith," the president declared at the end of the ceremony. "I place my mandate in the hands of the Virgin of the Angels, so that she may intercede for us and guide us on the path of the common good."
The reaction of the Christian community
The president's gesture was received with enthusiasm by the Christian community of the country. Leaders from various denominations expressed their support and commitment to pray for her administration. Many highlighted that this act of faith is a witness to the importance of seeking God in all areas of life, including politics. The event has also opened a space for dialogue between the government and churches, with the hope that this collaboration will result in policies that benefit the most vulnerable.
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