The Shepherd in the Thought of Pope Francisco and in the Andean World: A Documentary and Biographical Study

The purpose of the research was to analyze the figure of the shepherd both in the thought of Pope Francis and in the Andean world, describing his role, characteristics and attitudes, and identifying shepherds who follow the style of Jesus or oppose it. The theoretical framework explored the vision of the shepherd in the Hebrew, biblical and Christian worlds. This qualitative study used documentary analysis of 18 texts-homilies, speeches, and audiences-from 2013 to 2023 and biographical analysis through inductive coding. The results show that God and Jesus are shepherd models of protection, liberation and salvation. In Jesus, the promises of the good and redeeming shepherd are fulfilled. In the Peruvian Andes, women exercise the role of shepherdesses, reflecting care, protection and dedication, in harmony with Jesus the shepherd-Lamb. The conclusions show that authentic shepherds are close to God, Jesus and the people. They are characterized by their service, tenderness and compassion, being Samaritans, open doors, artisans of encounter and witnesses of mercy. They are opposed when they move away, take advantage of the people, seek power, money, an ecclesiastical career or personal interests. The figure of the Andean shepherdesses enriches the biblical understanding of the shepherd and Lamb, bringing a Latin American vision to pastoral ministry.