Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, presided over a solemn Mass at the metropolitan cathedral of Guatemala on August 2, marking the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Guatemala, according to Vatican News reporting by Renato Martínez. During his homily, Cardinal Parolin emphasized that only God can satisfy the deepest human hunger for meaning, love, and eternal life, while also bringing an affectionate greeting and paternal blessing from Pope Leo XIV to the Guatemalan people.
Diplomatic Milestones and High-Level Meetings in Guatemala
The apostolic journey spanning from August 1 to August 4 celebrates two major milestones: nine decades of formal diplomatic ties between the Holy See and Guatemala, alongside the 400th anniversary of the birth of Brother Pedro, according to official Vatican schedules. Cardinal Parolin arrived at La Aurora International Airport on August 1, where Vice Chancellor María Luisa Ramírez greeted him on the tarmac. His itinerary includes a series of high-level engagements, featuring a scheduled meeting with Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo, conversations with indigenous community representatives, discussions with Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martínez, and a formal address to the diplomatic corps, ahead of a concluding Mass at the Santuario Arquidiocesano de Adoración Perpetua in Mixco.
Addressing Social Injustices Through Faith
Preaching before a congregation of church leaders, diplomats, and civil authorities—including the nation’s president and vice president—Cardinal Parolin urged believers to actively combat societal indifference. According to the Vatican Secretary of State, proclaiming the Gospel requires embracing all of humanity and dismantling the dynamics of contempt, corruption, and inequality that drive social division. He noted that the Church finds its true vocation by following Jesus’ mandate to feed the hungry, urging citizens not to remain indifferent to the poverty, loneliness, and suffering present in modern society.
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Cardinal Parolin’s visit also included a morning stop at the “Madre Teresa de Calcuta” nursing home on August 2, prior to celebrating the Eucharist at the metropolitan cathedral alongside local bishops and the Apostolic Nuncio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Cardinal Parolin visit Guatemala?
Cardinal Parolin traveled to Guatemala to commemorate the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Guatemala, as well as the 400th anniversary of the birth of Brother Pedro, according to Vatican News.
Who did the Vatican Secretary of State meet during his trip?
His itinerary features meetings with Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo, Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martínez, indigenous community representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, and the nation’s bishops and priests.
What major events marked the beginning of the visit?
After arriving at La Aurora International Airport on August 1 and visiting the “Madre Teresa de Calcuta” nursing home, Cardinal Parolin presided over a major Sunday Mass at the metropolitan cathedral of Guatemala on August 2.
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