MEET OUR SEMINARIAN, IVAN!

Where were you born? Anaheim, CA

Tell us about your family! My parents immigrated from Mexico and met at our home parish St Polycarp in Stanton CA. My mom is 1 of 11 and my dad is 1 of 8 so I have a lot of extended family! I have 2 older sisters. We grew up in Anaheim and we own a small Mexican bakery in Stanton, it called Panaderia El Cortez, go check it out!

What is your favorite part about Solano? I just got here but everyone has been so welcoming. It feels like the people really care about each other and for their priests and seminarians. The community is so vibrant, and the Church is alive. Father Duy's mission to reach as many people as possible is awesome and it is evident through programs like Alpha and Welcome. I have been especially edified by the amount of young people that attend Summit and the joy that they bring here. Also, I really love the Blessed Sacrament Chapel for the prayer and peace that I can spend with Jesus in the Eucharist.
What does "Belong" mean to you? The mercy of God welcomes everyone no matter how far gone you think you are. To belong here at Solano is to belong to God.

What is something people most likely don't know about you? I have ridden my bike to all the California missions.

What is your favorite song? Lord, I've Settled (Brother Isaiah, JJ Wright)

What is your favorite food? My mom's quesadilla with the handmade tortillas

Most embarrassing moment in your life? Too embarrassing to share!

Random/fun fact about yourself? I studied American Sign Language for about 3 years.
What is your vision for Solano? That this can be a place where anyone can encounter God. Whether you have never been to Church before or you have been a Catholic all your life. I hope that we can grow deeper in our faith. That everyone here might seek to put Jesus at the center of their life. I also hope that there may be a greater devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament because He is there waiting for us.