Friar Edgar Varela was ordained to the priesthood on April 25, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Graham, North Carolina, by Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv., Archbishop of Atlanta.
Go to the margins. You know what it's like to come from a family that crosses borders, speaks two languages, that carries the faith from one world to another. Many of the people you serve will carry those same stories. Meet them there. Franciscan poverty is not only material; it's a poverty that creates space for others to encounter God.
The World Day of Prayer for Vocations was Sunday, April 26. Friar Edgar spoke about what a great blessing it is to receive the ministry of priesthood.
I receive this gift, not just for myself, but considering that it is for the Church. Through this ministry, I hope to bring Christ’s presence, love, and mercy to all, and most especially to the forgotten, the exiled, and the outcast. Please pray for me as I begin this wonderful ministry as a Franciscan friar-priest.
Let us together pray for more vocations to religious life and priesthood. Peace and all good.
Congratulations Fr. Edgar! Please keep him in prayer as he begins his priestly ministry.
(See more photos and read more about this joyful day at https://www.olaprovince.org/a-great-and-holy-day-friar-edgar-varela-ofm-conv-ordained-to-the-priesthood/)
