Hometown: Peru

Home Parish: St. Francis of Assisi, Pisco, Peru

Seminary: Mayor Seminary, San Martin de Porres, Diocese of Chosica,
Lima, East of Peru; currently at Conception Seminary College

Prior to entering the seminary
1 Year of Preliminary Seminary Studies (Propedéutico); 2 years of Philosophy; 3 years of Theology; English Program – Conception Seminary College.

When I was a little boy, I didn’t know about what I wanted to be when I grew up: a Doctor, Lawyer or an Engineer. I just wanted to be with God. However, ever since I was a little boy, I enjoyed praying and practicing it vividly and concretely in my family and community. I always liked to perceive God’s gifts: peace, hope, faith and tranquility in me. Before joining San Martin de Porres Seminary in Peru, I participated in church missions and in discernment groups for vocations in Pisco, my hometown. Also, I used to help at my parents’ bakery in counting and distributing bread. I had an entire year of discernment before joining San Martin de Porres Seminary in Peru, always counting with my family’s support and guided by Fr. Jose Sanchez Bernuy from San Francisco de Assisi Church.

Enjoy most about the seminary
I enjoy living in community with other seminarians. We pray together, which strengthens our relationship and identity as future brother priests. I also enjoy having fun with my diocesan brother seminarians; we exercise together, watch movies and play games. I really like the formation I’m receiving; I’m expanding my intellectual, spiritual, and human knowledge. I truly believe that the seminary formation I’m receiving will give me the means to grow and mature as a person and as a son of God. At the seminary, my vocation got stronger and I’ve grown in many aspects. I believe it’s important to help each other even though we are from different countries. I don’t’ fully understand the English language yet, but there are many things that unite us together.

Reason for entering the seminary
I decided to come to the Seminary because “I want to serve our Church which is present in the whole world.” I want to live my formation fully, with optimism and hope. Following the example of Fr. Rafael Keyes O’Sullivan, from Jefferson City—he gave his life for my country, Peru. I am thankful to God, as He makes everything possible for me to continue pursuing my vocation as a seminarian in the United States of America. Everything seemed impossible for me to come to the United States of America as there were a few obstacles in trying to get my visa and other paperwork needed. Today, however, it is a reality that I’m here, and I truly believe it’s because of God’s goodness as He confirms to me that I’m in the right path following his call. I’m not giving anything else to the Church of Jefferson City, but the gift of myself, for my vocation isn’t mine, but God’s gift to the Church.