Friar Pedro Lopez’s story brims with vibrant hues of faith, service, and an ardent commitment to both education and community. Hailing from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and nurtured in the diverse landscapes of El Paso, TX, and Sunland Park, NM, Friar Pedro’s multicultural upbringing formed the bedrock of his distinctive journey towards embracing the Franciscan Order.
Initially drawn to the path of the OFM brown Franciscans, Friar Pedro’s true calling found resonance during a transformative vocation retreat with the Conventual Franciscans. Enthralled by the warmth of belonging and a shared sense of purpose, he wholeheartedly embraced the Conventual Franciscan way of life, spurred by the opportunity to serve both English and Spanish-speaking communities.
His professional trajectory bears the hallmark of academic prowess and an unwavering dedication to education. In 2015, Friar Pedro proudly earned his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from New Mexico State University (NMSU) in Las Cruces, NM. Equipped with specialized training in curriculum and instruction, bilingual education, and teaching English as a second language, he embarked on a mission to impart knowledge and foster growth in his students.
As a friar, Friar Pedro’s service transcends geographical boundaries, enriching diverse communities with his deep-rooted understanding of Franciscan spirituality and unwavering commitment to serving others. From ministering to the sick and supporting parish activities at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in El Paso, TX, to immersing himself in prayer groups and community outreach during his mission in San Salvador, El Salvador, Friar Pedro’s journey epitomizes a steadfast dedication to the Franciscan ideals of compassion and service.
Among his cherished achievements are his high school graduation in 2002, his university graduation in 2015, and his entry into the Franciscan Order in the same year. Additionally, his completion of the first stage of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) in 2017 underscores his commitment to personal and spiritual growth.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Friar Pedro’s multifaceted talents extend to the realm of sports, particularly soccer. Over five years, he honed his coaching skills, guiding girls’ competitive traveling city teams in El Paso, TX, to numerous championships and instilling in them a spirit of teamwork and camaraderie. His expertise in training goalkeepers and refining defensive strategies also propelled high school teams in New Mexico to district titles and remarkable playoff runs.
Friar Pedro Lopez Jr.’s narrative serves as a poignant testament to the transformative power of faith, service, and a steadfast dedication to others. His recent ordination as a deacon on April 6, 2024, stands as a significant milestone, propelling him forward on his journey towards fulfilling his heartfelt aspiration of priesthood, and leaving an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to cross his path.
