The new president of Costa Rica has entrusted her government “to God”, at a mass to mark the beginning of her time in office. 

Laura Fernández, who is Catholic, laid down her presidential sash before an image of the nation’s patroness, Our Lady of the Angels, during the service on Saturday. Known as “La Negrita”, the Black Madonna in the basilica is visited by millions every year.

The 39-year-old conservative was joined by her staff, politicians, faith leaders and fellow Christians, having won election promising a crackdown on crime and a staunch commitment to freedom of worship. 

Bishop of Limón, Rt Rev Javier Román, prayed that the new president would have “wisdom in making decisions, prudence to listen, and clarity to act, always with the well-being of our people in mind”. 

Prayers of strength for those in public office were offered by Bishop Javier, reassuring new officials that God “walks with us even amid trials”. Alluding to debates about crime and justice, he prayed for “families battered by violence” that need peace, stating that Costa Rica needed “firmness [...] but also humanity”. 

Bishop Javier concluded by calling for unity and reiterating his commitment to pray for the president and government. 

During her election campaign, Fernández spoke of her faith and devotion to tradition, shaped by her education in Catholic schools.