Father Yader Centeno’s Journey of Faith

Father Yader Centeno’s Journey of Faith

The Nicaraguan currently serving as administrator of the St. John Bosco Catholic Parish in Miami is quite the globetrotter, having studied in Venezuela, Costa Rica, Spain, and Rome.

Father Yader Centeno was born in the city of León, Nicaragua, on October 4. He is the fourth of seven siblings. He completed his primary and secondary education at Calasanz School and La Salle School in his hometown. He began his university studies in Biology at the National Autonomous University of Nicaragua in León and entered the Seminary in 1986. He studied Philosophy and Theology in Venezuela, Costa Rica, Spain, and Rome. On December 20, 1996, he was ordained a priest at the Cathedral of León, Nicaragua. He has served as a priest in various countries on and off the continent, holding roles such as Philosophy professor, Spanish language teacher, Religion teacher, Pastoral Coordinator, School Principal, and Superior of a religious community. In 2007, he arrived in Miami as Assistant Parish Priest at St. Timothy, Santa Rosa de Lima, Corpus Christi parishes, and currently serves as Parish Administrator at St. John Bosco.

The St. John Bosco Parish:

The history of St. John Bosco Parish, located at 1349 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33135, is equally fascinating. It was inaugurated on October 11, 1962, and since its inception has been a sanctuary for immigrants, especially Cubans. Under the guidance of Father Emilio Vallina, who led the parish for over 40 years, an abandoned car dealership was transformed into a sacred space.

The church was consecrated in 1965. Additionally, with the opening of a preschool and classrooms, it became an educational center in 1966. Over the years, St. John Bosco has expanded its facilities and programs. One of its main attractions is a mural located in its dome inspired by the words “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest,” depicting Jesus welcoming people.

The eponymous saint:

St. John Bosco was an Italian priest and educator of the 19th century. Born in 1815, he lost his father as a child and lived in poverty. Inspired by a prophetic dream at the age of 9, he dedicated himself to guiding disadvantaged youth. In 1854, he founded the Salesian Congregation and promoted the education of needy youth. He died in 1888 and was canonized in 1934.