Since 1993, the San Antonio Friary Totolapan, State of Morelos, Mexico, has been home to the novitiate of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico. Over the course of more than three decades, many generations of novices have passed through this formation house. They have come not only from Mexico, but also Venezuela, Cuba, and Ecuador. So many friars have received formation in this place that it is difficult to count them accurately.
However, the religious profession of Friar Luis Adrián OROZCO VENTURA on July 2, 2025, marked the end of an era. On that date, the novitiate was transferred to another friary in the Province. This is in keeping with an agreement made through collaboration on formation matters between different Jurisdictions in Latin America. This decision was communicated at the end of the Mass at which Friar Luis Adrián made his temporary profession of vows.
During the same Mass, the friars currently studying philosophy renewed their vows. They are: Friars Juan Carlos REYES SANTILLÁN; Adolfo Ángel TAPIA BAUTISTA; and Erick Seau BENÍTEZ CANIVE. Friar Mario CASTRO MARTÍNEZ, the Minister Provincial of the Province of Mexico, presided over the Mass, assisted by several concelebrants. Other friars attended, including Friars Carlos Iván VILLACÍS VALERO and Roberto Carlos BOSQUES SAMANIEGO, both from Ecuador, who completed their novitiate in Mexico this year and will make their simple profession in their own country on July 19. They animated the emotion-filled Mass with liturgical song.
The Minister Provincial urged the newly professed to responsibly carry out their vocation. However, the announcement of the transfer of the novitiate brought a touch of nostalgia to the fraternal gathering. It should be noted that, although the friary in Totolapan will no longer be a formation house, the friars will continue to offer pastoral service to the local community.
The day ended with a fraternal lunch, where typical Mexican dishes were served, including “tlacoyos” (made with corn and beans) and “nopal” [cactus] salad, a dish that is very common on Mexican tables.
May the Lord grant perseverance to all the friars of the Province and support their commitment.
Friar Jorge HERNÁNDEZ DE LUNA
