José Pablo Hernández Quiñonez is a seminarian of the Archdiocese of Santiago in Guatemala.

"I entered the seminary in my country in 2015, I still remember the date, it was a January 18, and more than the date, I do not forget the Gospel of that Sunday: it was the passage of the first disciples of the Lord, that phrase was marked in my memory: Master, where do you live? and Christ's response: Come and see. Since then I have tried to follow the Master's invitation. 

For reasons of life, I met a priest of the Prelature of the Holy Cross, D. Mario, with whom I begin in 2017 to have spiritual direction; after a while, the opportunity arises to study outside the country.

I left Guatemala on August 28, 2018, the feast of St. Augustine of Hippo. Arriving in Bidasoa far exceeded my expectations. The priests, the companions - whom I have no problem calling brothers - treated me like one of the family. How much good it does for souls in places like Bidasoa, in this house of formation I have made great friends.

This is my third year in Spain, a little different because of the pandemic, but no less intense.

In my pastoral work I have known good and holy priests, and the need there is for them. People are thirsty for God - and I am a witness of this every Sunday - when Holy Communion is brought to the sick, sometimes I feel like a St. Aloysius Gonzaga - although the comparison is exaggerated, because I don't go that far - and this should make me seek holiness more."

I want to thank you for your collaboration in the formation of so many seminarians and priests. Please know that we never cease to pray for you. The Lord, who never lets himself be outdone in generosity, will know how to reward your efforts. Thank you, thank you and thank you! QMay Our Lord lead you very close to his Most Sacred Heart.

I pray to the Good Lord to preserve you and your families in good health."