Spanish missionary Father Julio Alonso Ampuero has dedicated his weekends to evangelizing the poor and vulnerable in the Diocese of Lurín, South Lima, Peru. He says that through his work giving retreats, hearing confessions, and offering biblical formation, he witnesses ‘many miracles’—especially in the form of conversions and renewed faith.
‘The truth is that it’s a blessing, because practically every weekend there are groups attending the retreat,’ Father Ampuero told ACI Prensa, referring to the Holy Family Retreat House in Lurín. ‘One certainly sees the fruits. One sees the good it does for people. Priests like us are privileged because people open their consciences to us, and one sees miracles constantly.’
The most requested retreats are those focused on inner healing and those designed for couples, including engaged couples and those living together, aiming to draw them closer to the sacrament of matrimony. Silent retreats are also emphasized, as Father Ampuero says there is a need for people to ‘turn inward’ and strengthen their relationship with God.
The retreat house is designed to be accessible to the poorest. ‘If there are people who can’t pay, or who can only pay a portion, we welcome them just the same. Divine Providence has always looked after us, and we have never gone without,’ he said.
Father Ampuero, a specialist in Sacred Scripture, arrived in Peru in 2011 after years of pastoral service and academic formation in Spain and Italy. He has nearly 30 publications on biblical and spiritual formation. He notes a great openness to the Gospel in Peru, contrasting it with the secularization he experienced in Spain. ‘People are close to their priests and place a high value on the Sacrament of Reconciliation,’ he said. ‘One can sometimes spend hours hearing confessions, and people seek out the priest simply to unburden themselves, to share their problems, and to find a little consolation and hope.’
Beyond retreats, Father Ampuero ministers at the Sowing Hope shelter, which houses 150 men, including the elderly, individuals with mental illnesses, and people rescued from the streets, many of whom are former drug addicts. ‘These individuals, who have often lost everything, can come to know the greatest thing of all: the love of God,’ he said. He highlights the transformative power of faith, especially for those struggling with addiction. ‘It’s faith in Christ, the encounter with Christ, that can most radically set you free and heal all wounds.’
For his own strength, Father Ampuero relies on prayer. ‘For me, prayer is my daily strength, and I would not give it up for anything. It’s what gives you oxygen; it’s what strengthens you; it’s what enables you to bear the burdens of your brothers and sisters as well.’ He urges young people considering religious life not to be afraid, saying, ‘When God calls us to something, he will always provide the means to carry it out. God takes nothing away; rather, he gives everything.’
