Daniel del Castillo González
Being friends with the pope these days doesn't seem like an easy thing, but before he was known as Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost was just another member of the Augustinian family, and he has great friends from across the Atlantic.
The last time Prevost traveled to Argentina was to accompany a friend on one of the most important days of his life.
In 2013, the Augustinians’ superior general attended the episcopal ordination of a fellow Augustinian with whom he shared many memorable experiences.
MSGR. ALBERTO BOCHATEY
Auxiliary Bishop of La Plata
My ordination took place on a Saturday, and on Sunday we went to the Basilica of Luján, the shrine where he will now preside over Mass as pope during this visit. It was very important to me that my friends from other countries be able to visit the Argentine Shrine of Our Lady of Luján. After that whole spiritual experience, we enjoyed a delicious Argentine barbecue.Prevost’s presence also held special significance within the Order of St. Augustine.
He and Bochatey had known each other since their years of formation in Rome, when they lived in the same community. By then, in addition to being fellow religious, they were close friends.
MSGR. ALBERTO BOCHATEY
5He was already a general of the order, it was obvious he would travel, and they had made one of his friars a bishop. That’s very significant. But at the same time, we were friends, companions. I didn’t want to ask him to come, but I was dying to have him there. Of course, he came and made arrangements in Rome so that other companions could come as well.FLASH 11:56–12:02He took it upon himself to organize a small delegation for me so they could come to Argentina to accompany me.This was the last trip to Argentina, but it wasn't the first. In August 2004, he traveled to Buenos Aires to inaugurate the Augustinian Library and participated in a conference on Augustinian theology.
That visit also yielded a photograph featuring the Augustinians prior, who would become Leo XIV, and the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, who would become Pope Francis.
MSGR. ALBERTO BOCHATEY
Auxiliary Bishop of La Plata
So no, we’re going to welcome Leo. Because no matter how much one may hold his friend Robert dear in one’s heart, theologically and ecclesiastically, he is the Pope. And more than just my friend, he is Leo XIV, the Vicar of Christ on Earth.
Now his friend Robert Prevost is setting out for Argentina, where he will meet with the faithful, officials, and encounter many different situations, but none of which make him forget the friends he has in the Land of Silver.
MSGR. ALBERTO BOCHATEY
Auxiliary Bishop of La Plata
Right now I'm dealing with some health issues, I'm in a wheelchair—so... some bishops tease me, saying, “You're going to be the one who stands out the most in the photos, all tiny and little, sitting there in your chair.” But there's great joy, and the Pope has been very supportive throughout this whole time with my health. Well, I hope to see you there. Take care. Thank God, I'll be there, God willing.
Thirteen years later, Prevost set out for Argentina, and one of his destinations was Luján—this time, no longer as the superior of the Augustinians, but as Leo XIV and a friend of those dedicated to a life of vocation.
