AMERICA/PERU - “The greatest challenge has been to work for the poor and those who are far from the Church” said Bishop Miguel Irizar of Callao who received a national award for 45 years of pastoral ministry and social commitment in Peru

Callao (Fides Service) - On Monday 25 July, the 35th anniversary of his ordination as Bishop, Spanish born Bishop Miguel Irizar of Callao was presented with the national medal of honour and the rank of Knight Commander, as recognition for 45 years of tireless pastoral ministry and social commitment in Peru.
Expressing his gratitude for the award presented by the President of the Peruvian Congress Ántero Flores Araoz, Bishop Irizar, visibly moved, said “the greatest challenge has been to work for the poor and for those who are far from the Church. I thank God for this award but I would say that the greatest honour I wear is the cross of Christ”.
Bishop Miguel Irizar Campos, a Passionist Father (C.P.), born in Ormaiztegui (Spain), was sent in 1960by his Congregation on mission in Peru. In 1972 he wss appointed Bishop/Vicar Apostolic of Yurimaguas and chose as his motto “Sent to carry the Good News”. This motto characterised his ministry as a Bishop. For 17 years he worked as a missionary Bishop announcing the Gospel of salvation to the Indigenous communities in the Peruvian forest. In 1989 Pope John Paul II appointed him Bishop Coadjutor of Callao Peru’s main city-port and since 1995 he has been Bishop of Callao. (RZ) (Agenzia Fides 27/7/2005 - Righe 18, Parole 234)