El Paso Diocese to get a new priest with El Paso ties

EL PASO, Texas ( KTSM ) — The Diocese of El Paso will be getting a new priest and the new addition is quite familiar with El Paso.

Deacon Luis Manuel Rodarte Jr. will be ordained into the priesthood at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 28 at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1118 N. Mesa St., the Diocese announced. Ceremony will be presided over by El Paso Mark Seitz.

“Born and raised in El Paso, Deacon Luis Manuel Rodarte Jr., 33, has taken a distinctive path to
his ordination. As a Fr. Yermo High School Graduate, Deacon Luis initially embarked on a
promising academic career in medicine. Rodarte experienced a profound spiritual calling that
redirected his life towards theological study and pastoral service. His journey of faith and
learning took him through St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston and St. John’s Seminary in
Camarillo, California,” the Diocese said in a news release.

Father Ivan Montelongo, director of Vocations Ministry, said Rodarte’s ordination will serve an inspiration to young people.

“Deacon Luis’ ordination is a powerful testament to the strength of faith and commitment to answering God’s call,” Montelongo said.

Following his ordination, Rodarte will begin his priestly ministry at St. Pius X Parish
in El Paso, the Diocese said.

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