Pope Leo XIV Announces Miracle Following Doctor’s Prayer to 19th Century Priest, Premature Baby Survives Unexpectedly

Pope Leo XIV Acknowledges Miracles Linked to Spanish Priest

Pope Leo XIV has formally acknowledged miracles associated with a 19th-century Spanish priest, specifically highlighting the miraculous survival of a premature baby in Rhode Island back in 2007.

As detailed in a report by the Dicastery for the Cause of Saints, a premature baby named Tyquan was born on January 14, 2007, via emergency cesarean section at Memorial Hospital in Pawtucket. Complications had arisen, leading doctors to doubt the baby’s chances of survival.

According to NBC 10 News, a Spanish doctor prayed to Salvador Varera Parra, a priest who passed away in 1889. Remarkably, after the prayer, the baby’s heart began to beat on its own.

Tyquan was then transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit at the Women’s and Infants Hospital, with concerns about potential severe neurological issues. However, to everyone’s surprise, he developed normally—he spoke at 18 months, walked by the age of two, and even got involved in sports.

The Providence Diocese in Rhode Island acknowledged the Vatican’s recognition on Friday. Pastor Timothy Riley mentioned, “Miracles remind us of the power of prayer and the intercession of holy individuals.”

This recognition also contributes to the case for Varela Parra’s eventual sainthood. Born in 1816 and serving during difficult times in Spain, Parra became well-regarded for his dedication during epidemics and natural disasters.

Interestingly, Spanish officials started investigating the case in Rhode Island back in 2014. Riley noted, “When you contemplate miraculous events, it feels as though Father Varela still lives in the 19th century. Although he’s never set foot in the United States, the doctor called out to him in 2007, seeking a miracle for that tiny baby.”