On June 20, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged what many described as a modern miracle: the unexplained recovery of newborn Tyquan Hall at a Rhode Island hospital in 2007. The Vatican confirmed that a prayer played a crucial role in saving the baby’s life.
A Life Hanging in the Balance
Tyquan entered the world via emergency cesarean at Memorial Hospital in Pawtucket on January 14, 2007. He suffered severe oxygen deprivation, had no detectable pulse for over an hour, and was not expected to survive. Medical staff feared long-term neurological damage, marking the situation as dire.
A Prayer Answered?
In a desperate moment, the attending physician, Dr. Juan Sánchez‑Esteban—who hails from Huércal‑Overa, Spain—turned to Father Valera Parra. According to reports, he pleaded: “I have done everything possible; now it’s your turn.” Miraculously, Tyquan’s heart began beating again and he started breathing normally—without further medical intervention.
A Healthy Childhood
Following his recovery, Tyquan spent 15 days in neonatal intensive care. Despite initial concerns, he not only survived but thrived—hitting developmental milestones such as speaking at 18 months and walking by age two. He grew up participating in sports and achieving normal childhood wellness.
Toward Canonization
Pope Leo XIV’s declaration formally accredits the event as a miracle attributed to Father Valera Parra’s intercession. This move significantly advances the priest’s cause for beatification and possible sainthood. The declaration affects only the first step; another confirmed miracle would be needed for full canonization. Reverend Timothy Reilly from the Diocese of Providence expressed joy, calling it “wonderful news” and highlighting how remarkable it was given that Father Valera never visited the U.S., let alone Rhode Island.
Local and Religious Perspectives
In Rhode Island, the announcement stirred celebration and renewed discussion about faith and medicine. OSV News noted locals welcomed the declaration, describing it as “a reminder of the power of prayer and the intercession of holy men and women. Within the Vatican, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints presented the decree to Pope Leo XIV on June 20, further validating the event’s religious significance.
Context: A Second Millennial Saint?
The miracle declaration also aligns with broader Vatican efforts under Pope Leo XIV. It follows earlier steps toward the canonization of Carlos Acutis, a British teenager who passed away in 2007—poised to become the first recognized Millennial saint.
What Happens Next?
Father Valera Parra is now titled “Venerable Servant of God”, and his beatification process has gained momentum. Before canonization, the Church will need one more medically inexplicable miracle attributed to his intercession. Local dioceses, especially in Spain and Rhode Island, may play roles in documenting future cases.
Final Thoughts
While skeptics cite successful surgeries and neonatal care, Catholics see this event as a divine affirmation of faith. Tyquan’s story—born on the brink of death, restored through prayer, and raised fully healthy—continues to spark wonder. It stands as a symbolic bridge between science and spiritual belief, now carrying the weight of Vatican approval. The Vatican’s recognition of this miracle reinforces the enduring power of faith, inspiring believers worldwide and renewing interest in divine intercession.
