On May 8, Costa Rica witnessed a deeply moving gesture for many believers: the newly elected president, Laura Virginia Fernández Delgado, chose to begin her administration by placing her presidential sash at the feet of the Virgin of Los Angeles, the country's patron saint. This act, which she described as part of a "promise," took place during a Eucharistic celebration led by Monsignor Javier Román, bishop of Limón and president of the Costa Rican Bishops' Conference.
The ceremony, held at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, was not only a moment of personal reflection for the president but also a public declaration of her trust in God to guide her tenure. The following day, she shared images of the event on social media, highlighting the importance of placing her leadership under divine protection.
The Homily: A Call to Humility and Dependence on God
During the homily, Monsignor Román emphasized that beginning a government with Mass serves as a reminder that "there are decisions and burdens that cannot be sustained by our own strength alone." The bishop stressed the need to turn to God daily, especially when facing challenges that exceed human capacity.
The prelate also offered a prayer asking for "strength" for those who take on public responsibilities, reminding everyone that behind every office "there is still a person; a heart that needs serenity and peace so as not to harden amid so many pressures." These words resonated in a context where violence and social uncertainty deeply affect the nation.
Peace for the People and Their Leaders
Monsignor Román invited the new authorities to seek peace in God, who, he assured, "walks with us even in the midst of trials." He noted that this peace is a shared need for all Costa Ricans: "It is needed by families battered by violence. It is needed by our young people, often tempted by wrong paths or discouragement. It is needed by our communities, marked by insecurity, drug trafficking, and homicides."
In light of this reality, the bishop called upon the Holy Spirit to grant the authorities "wisdom to decide, prudence to listen, and clarity to act, always thinking of the well-being of our people."
Public Faith in an Age of Secularization
Monsignor Román also addressed the challenge of living out faith in the public square, noting that we live in a time when "faith is hidden or minimized." Yet gestures like the president's show that spirituality remains a vital pillar for many leaders. The Bible reminds us in Matthew 5:16: "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (NIV).
Such testimonies inspire believers not to be ashamed of their faith and to integrate it into every aspect of life, including public service. As Christians, we are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-14), and leaders have a unique opportunity to model that influence.
An Example for Other Leaders
President Fernández Delgado's decision to begin her term with Mass is not an isolated event. Across Latin America, many leaders have turned to faith at key moments in their tenure. What stands out here, however, is the humility to acknowledge that human power is limited and that divine guidance is needed. Proverbs 3:5-6 exhorts us: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (NIV).
This act also reminds us of the importance of praying for our authorities. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul urges believers to "pray for all people" and especially for those in authority. Let us remember to lift up our leaders in prayer, that they may govern with wisdom and compassion.
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