Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Peruvian priests lauded for work with gang members, poor

Radio Programas del Peru, the largest radio network in the country, has chosen two priests to receive its annual award for their work in “inspiring the country.”
Father Jose Chuquillanqui Yamamoto and Father Jose Ignacio Mantecon were chosen for the honor for their initiatives with the poor and underprivileged in the capital city of Lima.

Through sports and educational programs, Fr. Mantecon has helped more than 400 young people escape from a life in gangs and has helped rehabilitate them into Peruvian society.

Fr. Chuquillanqui’s programs aimed at helping those trapped in poverty have given hope to hundreds over the past sixteen years. 

In 1999 he began a formation program for young people that has helped more than five hundred boys and girls to get an education and learn trade skills.