First interview of Fr. Javier Álvarez – new Vicar General

When the election of the Vicar General was completed before noon on July 9, the Chronicler of the Assembly, Fr. Celestino Fernández asked new elected Vicar General, Fr. Javier Álvarez a couple of questions. Personally, they two are very good friends from the Province of Madrid. Read the answers given by new Vicar General:

Celestino Fernández: Tell us something about your life so that the readers might know you better

Javier Álvarez: I come from the Castilian region of Spain which is in the center of the country. I was ordained in 1982 by Pope John Paul II. One of the ministries that I have had pleasure to be involved in has been the
formation of our candidates during fifteen years of my ministerial life. The Daughters of Charity have been the other ministry that has occupied my attention, dedication and commitment. I was the first Director of Madrid – Saint Louise Province and next the Director General of Daughters of Charity. I am suffering and am greatly worried about the situation of the poverty in which are so many people live in the world. I raise many questions about the loss of faith and human and Christian values especially in our developed societies. These assumptions make it difficult to discuss actuality of our Vincentian charism.

Celestino Fernández: Tell me, how do you feel at this time?

Javier Álvarez: Right now, two feelings coexist in me. On the one hand, I feel great sorrow for leaving the service I’ve fulfilled so far, as Director General of the Daughters of Charity, in which I was very focused and very excited. Never enough it will be to appreciate the warm welcome from the Sisters and the animation I have always received. The other feeling is hope. When I look at my new mission, I am excited and animated in the same way. I am determined to give more of myself and give myself fully to the work which the Assembly has asked me. I think the big international experience I have gained during past six years in Paris will help me, thanks to the Daughters of Charity, whom I love and deeply admire.