News - Prelature of Ayaviri - New Priest in Umachiri

Ayaviri, January 2 - On January 1st a new pastor was appointed to the Saint Francis of Assisi parish of the historic town of Umachiri, Fr. Jose Quispe, who until recently served as a pastor in the city of Macusani. He was welcomed by his new flock in the celebration of the Eucharist yesterday on the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God.

Bishop Kay Martin Schmalhausen, who presided at the celebration, thanked Fr. Alberto Ignacio Rodriguez for having served the parish for

eight years. In his homily the Bishop Prelate of Ayaviri emphasized the mission that every pastor has to live: that of being a good shepherd like Christ the Good Shepherd who gives his life for his sheep. He invited all to "cast their eyes on the Virgin Mary; we know that she understands our human heart in a very special way."

At the end of the celebration the mayor of the city and representatives of the different civil and religious institutions thanked Fr. Ignacio for his pastoral work and welcomed Fr. Jose on behalf of the whole community.