Faith and heritage unite at Peru Independence Day Mass
By Heather Excell
Peruvian flags, familiar hymns and prayers of thanksgiving brought a touch of home to St Mary’s Cathedral on the evening of Saturday 25 July as Tasmania’s Peruvian community celebrated the 205th Anniversary of Peru’s Independence.
Welcoming the community in their native language of Spanish, Archbishop Tony Ireland acknowledged the significance of the celebration, and the presence of the Ambassador of Peru to Australia, Vitaliano Gallardo Valencia.
Following Mass, Ambassador Gallardo Valencia thanked the Archdiocese and the people of Tasmania for the warmth they have shown to the Peruvians who have made the island their home.
Reflecting on the growing community, he spoke of those who have come to Tasmania to study, marry Australians and build new lives, while enriching the wider community through their culture and faith.
“When you receive someone, you are receiving myself,” he said, describing the Tasmanian hospitality towards Peruvians as a reflection of our shared Christian values.
The Ambassador also asked those gathered to remember in their prayers the people of Peru, particularly those affected by the recent earthquakes and fires.
“Our world is in need of compassion,” he said, encouraging the faithful to continue “the work of the love of our Lord” by supporting one another through prayer and acts of service.
For Andrea Ruiz, who attended the Mass with her husband and three children, the celebration was a powerful reminder that faith can bridge the distance between two countries.
“It was a very special and emotional experience,” she said. “Being so far from our home country and being able to celebrate our Independence Day in such a beautiful place, surrounded by fellow Peruvians and people who have welcomed us so warmly, made me feel very close to home.”
Having moved from Peru to Australia almost four years ago, Andrea said the Ambassador’s words echoed her own family’s experience since settling in Tasmania.
“Since we arrived in Tasmania, we have experienced kindness, respect, and support from the community,” she said. “We’ve met people who have made us feel truly welcome, and that has allowed us to build a new life here while continuing to cherish our traditions.”
The evening’s most moving moment for Andrea came as she watched her 11-year-old daughter, Amy Ruiz, sing Peru’s National Anthem. Amy’s rendition reflected the pride and affection many in the congregation continue to hold for their homeland.
“Seeing her perform our national anthem with such pride and emotion, while being so far from our homeland, was incredibly moving,” she said. “It reminded me how important it is to pass on to our children a love for our roots, our culture, and our Peruvian identity.”
For the Peruvian community who had gathered at the Cathedral, the celebration helped them to feel both welcome and close to their home.
“It was a very special experience,” said Andrea. “It was a moment of faith, gratitude, and pride in our heritage.”
