The municipality of Moroleón, Guanajuato, proudly celebrates the election of the new Pope Leon XIV, who was previously known as Cardinal Robert Prevost. This sentiment is due to the fact that the Pope had visited this community four times before arriving at the Vatican. During his pastoral tours in Latin America, Prevost included Mexico in his route, which allowed him to establish a close connection with Moroleón.
Alma Barragán, the municipal president of Moroleón, expressed her satisfaction for having welcomed the now Pope on multiple occasions in the locality. The religious community and local faithful have shared anecdotes and memories of the then cardinal, highlighting the close relationship he maintained with Moroleón, a little-known aspect of his pastoral life.
The Rectory of San Agustín in Moroleón witnessed the interactions of Robert Prevost with priests, the celebration of Masses, and meetings with the local religious community. A photograph taken in that rectory, featuring the new Pope alongside other religious figures, has been widely circulated in media and social networks since his appointment, awakening a sense of pride in Moroleón as they recall his previous visits.
Thus, Moroleón becomes one of the few places in Mexico that can say they received the now Pope Leon XIV before he became the leader of the Catholic Church. The close presence and bonds that the Pope built in Moroleón have left an indelible mark on the community, which celebrates with affection and gratitude his Guanajuato roots.