Br. Luis Pedroza, CSV graduated from Universidad Santo Tomás, Seccional Tunja, with a professional certification in Physical Culture, Sports, and Recreation.
Br. Luis is one of our youngest members at 29 years old. Until Br. Carlos Suárez, CSV professed first vows in January, Br. Luis was also our most recently professed of our province. Following Br. Luis’ profession of first vows in January 2021, he continued his studies in physical education and has now completed his professional credential.
Br. Luis Pedroza, CSV
“I am now qualified to design, implement, manage, and evaluate physical education programs and projects, focused on human, social, and educational development,” Br. Luis said. “My training in pedagogy helps me prepare innovative, meaningful lesson plans, using motor activity as a tool to promote learning, well-being, and building healthy habits.”
As professed Viatorians live out our vocations, we are encouraged to pursue graduate studies and professional programs that help them deepen their knowledge, strengthen their skill set, and prepare them to best serve the People of God.
While brothers who discern a call to priesthood will enter theological studies, other brothers may pursue studies in professional areas such as social work, counseling, or, like Br. Luis, education. Br. Luis renewed his temporary vows in 2024, and now, he brings additional skills to his ministry as a religious brother.
“I seek to contribute thoughtfully to the educational environment of our schools, preparing lessons in which sports, physical activity, and recreation are integrated,” Br. Luis said. “Through these lessons, we can develop students’ values and ability to work together and improve the quality of life of these young people who we serve.”
We are thrilled to congratulate Br. Luis, especially on Religious Brothers Day (May 1). Today, the Church is invited to pray for and thank our religious brothers for their witness and service. All Viatorian professed begin religious life as brothers and share that common foundation to their formation and religious life. In addition to Br. Luis, let’s catch up briefly with the brothers of our province:
The Province of Chicago includes 12 religious brothers, pictured here in alphabetical order.
Br. John Alexander Avellaneda, CSV is in theological studies at Viatorian-sponsored Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, Illinois. Br. John lives with his brothers at the Saint Viator High School residence, and he will be ordained a transitional deacon this summer.
Br. Edwin Barreto, CSV is the Director of Pre-Novices for the Province of Colombia, a role he will pass on to Fr. Dan Lydon, CSV as he shifts his focus to his theological studies.
Br. Pat Drohan, CSV continues living and serving in retreat ministries at Villa Desiderata Retreat Center in McHenry, IL, his only placement for over 60 faithful years!
Br. Carlos Flórez, CSV serves as Director of Catholic and Viatorian Identity and Mission at Cristo Rey St. Viator College Prep in North Las Vegas, NV.
Br. Michael Gosch, CSV serves as Director of Programs and Housing at Viator House of Hospitality and serves the province as a provincial councilor and our Coordinator of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation.
Br. Peter Lamick, CSV serves the province as Director of Vocation Ministry.
Br. P. Enrique Medina, CSV teaches religion at Colegio San Viator in Bogotá, Colombia.
Br. Juan David Ramirez, CSV teaches math at Colegio San Viator in Tunja, Colombia.
Br. Michael Rice, CSV lives in retirement with his brothers at the Viatorian Province Center, following many years of service to Viatorian parishes and schools.
Br. Rob Robertson, CSV serves as a counselor at Saint Viator High School in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Br. Carlos Suárez, CSV teaches philosophy and social studies at Colegio San Viator in Tunja, Colombia.