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“The children are my heartbeat…they keep me alive and going.”
Meet Father Victor Cruz. He is our pastor for St. Mary’s Parish and School. He came to our parish and school in January of 2011. Father Victor arrived in the United States in April of 2007, assigned to St. Vincent de Paul in Arlington, Texas. He later served as Chaplain at the University of North Texas in Denton and then as Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Denton.
Children have been his lifeline for many years. While still serving in India, he developed high blood pressure. His doctor told him he needed to keep calm and recommended that he spend more time with the children at his school. He has held onto that advice and he has had no issues with his blood pressure since. At St. Vincent de Paul, he was involved with the learning center as well as with the students at UNT and ICCS. At St. Mary’s he regularly visits with the kids during class, at recess and often attends the kids sporting events to cheer them on. “When my schedule gets too busy, I leave what I am doing and go to school and play with the children. They make me happy and keep my calm.”
Fr. Victor says that his teaching ministry is part of his priestly ministry. He understands that he is a role model for the kids and is proud of the kids at St. Mary’s who always show him respect and reverence as their priest. “The core of human existence is security. If the children are secure around me, then my presence is meaningful.”
“With the help of the school staff and advisory council, they make my burden easier. Their support is always there for the development of each child. Our students are the pillars of tomorrow’s church – that is the fulfillment of ministry – tomorrow’s church. Faith and family are intertwined at St. Mary’s Parish and School. Together we are creating good Christians for the future.”
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