Just one week ago, the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out and white smoke rose over the Eternal City. In that awe-filled moment, the Catholic Church rejoiced: Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, was elected as the 267th successor of St. Peter.
With hearts full of joy and gratitude, we at Tepeyac Leadership join the global Church in celebrating this historic moment. Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral tenderness, theological depth, and missionary zeal offer a profound witness to the Church—and to the world. His journey, which includes many years of loving service in my native Peru, speaks volumes of his heart for the people and his dedication to Christ.
This week, we also marked the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, a celebration deeply connected to the new Holy Father. As Bishop of Chiclayo, he once welcomed the pilgrim statue of Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal, gathering the faithful to consecrate the diocese in an act of repentance, unity, and love. His prayer, overflowing with humility and Marian devotion, reminds us that the Church’s renewal always begins with returning to the heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
For us, this moment carries a particular weight. Pope Leo XIV’s love for the laity and his belief in our indispensable mission is both affirming and challenging. His chosen name—Leo—calls to mind the courage and conviction of past pontiffs who led the Church boldly through history. It reminds us that the mission of forming lay Catholic leaders is not a luxury—it is a necessity.
As we look ahead, we do so with renewed purpose.
(Please click to watch the video invitation below)
On June 1, registration opens for The Hour of the Laity 2025, our flagship leadership summit taking place this year in Mexico City, at the feet of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This is no ordinary conference—it is a charge to the lay faithful to lead beyond the pews and into every corner of civil society. From business to education, government to media, we are forming Catholic leaders ready to serve with integrity and courage.
We invite you to be a part of this mission. Let us honor this sacred time in the life of the Church not just with celebration—but with action. Inspired by Pope Leo XIV, and the example of St. Juan Diego, may we rise to the call with boldness, humility, and the grace of Our Lady guiding our every step.
Cristofer Pereyra is the CEO of Tepeyac Leadership, Inc., a global Catholic apostolate dedicated to forming lay Catholics for leadership in civic society. Follow him on Instagram and LinkedIn
Why THL? Watch to learn about the vision behind the conference.
Click to watch some highlights from THL2024.
