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Introducing Victor Artaiz: What Matters to Me

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Editor’s Note: Overseas lay missioner in formation, Victor Artaiz, reflects on how God tugged on his heart and led him to formation with FMS.


God has always tugged on my sleeve and at my heart, especially during those times when I was only focused on myself!

Here in the Brookland neighborhood of DC, I am again blessed to have God smooth the road for me and lead me to the Franciscan Mission Service, where I am on a journey for goodness and truly a new awakening in my life. At almost 59 years of age, I am learning a new approach to life through the foundational Franciscan pillars of solidarity, peace, justice, reconciliation, and care for creation, values that matter to me.

Now one month into my intensive overseas lay missioner formation process, I am learning with clarity and creating a passion to serve economically poor communities in the world. FMS is teaching me not only the what and the why of mission, but HOW to accompany our brothers and sisters who live on the margins of life.

It is a surreal feeling to embrace the call of God and to join my Casa housemates in a community with a shared commitment to live out a Franciscan lifestyle while being present to those we encounter in our daily walk. 

Thank God for His continued summoning, and I am grateful for those who continue to join me on this journey of transition through the rest of formation and beyond.

Reflection Question: How do you react when you feel the tug of God on your heart?

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After a 30 year career in international business and serving communities in Kenya and locally in New Haven, CT, Victor Artaiz is grateful for the opportunity to serve and accompany individuals living on the margins in mutuality and simplicity through FMS’ Overseas Lay Missioner program. Victor's ministries in Cochabamba, Bolivia, include addiction recovery services, accompanying men who are incarcerated, and serving meals to people experiencing hunger.