Reverend Pedro Martinez was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Fort Worth on June 29, 2020.

Born in central Mexico, he came to Texas with his family as a 14-year-old and later earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. Before entering the seminary, the St. Matthew parishioner worked for the City of Arlington as a human services specialist.

His late uncle, a diocesan priest in Chihuahua, Mexico, was an early influence but Father Martinez credits former St. Matthew pastor, Father Hector Medina, for asking the thought-provoking question, “I see something in you. Would you like to be a priest?”

“The idea comes as a surprise — always, but I saw that priest as a role model and true shepherd,” recalled the former parish youth group member. “I saw the way he cared for the people of God and it inspired me.”

Assigned to serve at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Fort Worth after ordination, the new priest is excited about beginning the next chapter in his life.

“I’m really excited to be a priest for the people of God — to take care of their souls, their needs, and just be a representative of Christ to them on earth,” he beamed. “Having friends and family here today is a blessing. We’re ordained to serve people. Even in the midst of a pandemic, God is always with us.”