Japan: During the course of his Apostolic Journey to Japan from November 23 to November 26, Pope Francis was assisted by his fellow student, Rev. Fr. Renzo Luca. The Holy Father was the Seminary Rector of Jesuit priests and Provincial Superior of Rev. Luca in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The Jesuit priest confirmed the information to the Vatican News department on 18th November through a telephonic conversation.
Rev. Luca was entrusted with the duty to translate Spanish to Japanese to a live audience all throughout the Pope’s Apostolic Visit. In the telephonic interview, he mentions that he was quite nervous about the duty. Further, he said that he is aware of the love and affection of George Borgolio, his superior; but is tensed about translating the talk of the head of the Universal Church to a large live audience.
She recounts his encounter with the Pope in the Vatican. He continues that the Holy Father treated him in the same welcoming and casual way as he would during his seminary days. “Hola Renzo”, called out the pope, he said during their first meeting in Japan. Rev. Luca reveals that the Pope’s unofficial and welcoming gesture had influenced a lot and that his anxiousness was instantly healed.
Fr. Renzo revealed that only 10 official speeches had to be translated to Japanese. However, he was prepared for all public appearances as he knew the nature of the Holy Father, who never stood oblivious to the questions of his attendees.
