Reverend Carlos Mauricio Portillo

Fr. Mauricio Portillo was ordained a priest of Jesus Christ on June 4, 2022.

Read the Arlington Catholic Herald interview with Fr. Portillo.

Read about Deacon Mauricio's ordination to the diaconate in Rome on September 30, 2021.

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

I graduated from high school in 2012 from Arlington Public schools; then I went to Northern Virginia Community College for two semesters, taking general classes. Besides that, I worked full time as a volunteer with the Spanish youth group directed by the Secular Institute “Stabat Mater.”

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

After a long period of discernment, I received three powerful influences, which were God´s voice in my decision to apply for seminary entrance. First, I spent time praying every day asking God to show me my vocation. Second, being in contact with many young people in many parishes who needed a lot of help with their troubles related with their faith. Third, meeting a lot of priests who live with a great joy their vocation.

Why do you want to be a priest?

Because I want to be God´s instrument to show every man and woman that God loves them no matter how far they are from Him. Also, to nourish the People of God with the sacraments of the church.

What are your favorite pastimes?

I like to play soccer, go hiking and watch movies.

What is your favorite quote?

“You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you” - St. Augustine

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

My favorite Saint is Ignatius of Loyola because his spirituality has been of great influence in my life, especially with his Spiritual Exercises.

What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?

Keeping silence before God every day, and asking Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph for the grace of being obedient to God´s call.