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efore the end of the year, I was blessed to attend the diaconate ordination of Michael Martínez, S.J., alumnus from the class of 2009. After several years of formation in the Society of Jesus, he finally dawns the stole that symbolizes his access to baptizing children, witnessing at weddings, and assisting at Masses. For six months, he will exercise this ministry before being ordained to the priesthood. Scheduled for early in the summer, it will be the first priestly ordination celebrated in the Our Lady of Belen Chapel, our unabashed commitment to the Catholic faith and a fitting venue for a young man who spent seven years everything it teaches. It must be at the center of our pitch. as a student at Belen Jesuit. This ordination is of particular significance to me because Michael was a student of mine. He sat in my Honors Philosophy and Honors Ignatian Spirituality classes, he traveled with me on the Overseas Study Program in the summers and was a participant in the Belen Youth Mission experience. Michael was also an active member in the school’s retreat program and eventually went on to serve as the Student Council vicepresident. To say he took full advantage of his Belen experience is an understatement. But what is of particular importance is that he discovered his vocation to the priesthood and religious life at Belen. It was walking through our hallways, playing on our fields, praying in our chapel, and eating in our cafeteria where he heard the voice of God call out to him and ask him to take his commitment to the Church a step further. Isn’t that exactly how it should be? Like St. Ignatius of Loyola tells us in the Principle and Foundation of his Spiritual Exercises, each and every one of us is called by God to love, and reverence, and serve. Each in his own way, through various vocations, but all for the greater glory of God. This is the reason Belen Jesuit is so committed to its Catholic-Jesuit identity. This is the reason why every strategic plan designed since 2016 has prioritized the strengthening of our commitment and identity as a Catholic school. Every academic class, club, sport, and extracurricular activity must necessarily support our identity as a Catholic-Jesuit school. It is what sets us apart from so many formidable options families have for schooling in South Florida. When prospective families come to our campus to explore the future of their sons’ education, they need to be made aware of 2
One might think that focusing so much on this one particular aspect of our school might turn some people away, limit the number of applicants in such a competitive field. The opposite has been true. Never in the history of our school, particularly in Miami, have we seen the number of young men who are applying for admission. There is no doubt our strong academic program, innovative teaching style, state championship athletic program, and beautiful, state-of-the-art campus add to the allure, but it is our Catholic-Jesuit commitment that tops the list of reasons so many choose Belen. This edition of the Alumni Magazine focuses on this crucial piece of who we are. Thanks to the dedication of our faculty and staff, the passion of our alumni base, and the continuous generous support of our benefactors, we can do exactly that. We can continue to create the environment at Belen that allows young men like Michael Martínez to truly discover the path God has called them to. It is for this reason I continue to ask you to support Belen. Your prayers and generosity make it all possible. On behalf of the Jesuits and the whole Belen Jesuit community, thank you for everything you do to help make the vision of our school more than simply a pitch, but a reality. Auspice Maria, Fr. Willie ‘87
BELEN JESUIT MAGAZINE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Fr. Guillermo M. García-Tuñón, S.J., Ed.D., ’87 President
Roberto Borbolla ’56 Alumni Content Editor
Carlos Bravo ’86 Alumni Association Executive Director
Carlos Cristóbal ‘16 Communications Specialist
Felipe "Phil" Fernández ’94 Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations
Carlos Jiménez ‘15 Alumni Data & Support Administrator
Teresa Martínez Director of Communications
Mirna Menéndez Copy Editor
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS José López-Varela ‘87 - President Alberto Paradela ‘11 - Vice President Eduardo “Eddie” Macías ’02 - Secretary Thomas Pla ’00 - Treasurer Ramón Branger ’92 Vicente Cossío ’72 José “Joey” Gómez ‘08 Alejandro Gómez-Pina ‘93 Carlos Hernández ’88 Derek León ‘00 Xabier Martínez-Cid ‘11 Luis Pérez-Codina ‘01 Rogelio E. Ribas, M.D. ‘83 Francisco “Paco” Ruiz ‘73 Carlos Suárez ‘00 Fr. Juan Manuel Dorta-Duque, S.J., ’40 + Emeritus Spiritual Director
BELEN JESUIT ALUMNI MAGAZINE is published biannually. Circulation: 12,250 Periodicals postage paid in Miami, FL and additional mailing points. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Belen Alumni Office 500 Southwest 127 Avenue Miami, FL 33184 Phone: 786.621.4674 Fax: 786.621.4662 alumni@belenjesuit.org www.belenalumni.org
YEAR MMXXIV - NO. 1
Table of Contents FEATURES
A PLACE TO CALL HOME ALUMNI TAILGATE PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE RECEPTION HALL OF FAME FAITH, BEAUTY, & DEVOTION BJESUIT EDUCATED BEYOND BELEN ENHANCING OUR CATHOLIC JESUIT ETHOS MAGIS 10 QUESTIONS FOR 1 ALUMNUS REYES MAGIS
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COMMUNITY NEWS ATHLETIC NEWS ANNOUNCEMENTS CLASS NOTES ALUMNI GATHERINGS
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COMMUNITY NEWS
BEATRIZ JIMÉNEZ IGNATIAN EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD Dr. Matthew Jordan ‘08 was named by his peers as the second recipient of the Beatriz Jiménez Ignatian Educator of the Year Award. The recipient of this award will be selected annually and given to a member of the faculty or staff who exemplifies the profile of an Ignatian Educator.
EIGHT GRADE FAMILY DAY The class of 2028 celebrated Family Day on November 4. These Wolverines were able to make new memories with their families that will last a lifetime. From attending Mass to playing games to making sandwiches for those who may not know where their next meal is coming from, these are moments that bring the families together.
NATIONAL RECOGNITION PROGRAM AWARDS Congratulations to the nine Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program and to Raymond A. Pérez, named National Merit Semifinalist. Additionally, 112 Belen Jesuit students have earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs.
SIXTH GRADE LOCK-IN The class of 2030 took part in the annual Sixth Grade Lock-In on September 15. This event is an exciting and memorable tradition for the youngest Wolverines in the Belen community.
CLASS OF 2024 RING MASS The senior class received their class ring during the Eucharistic Celebration on October 10 in the Our Lady of Belen Chapel. Fr. Willie, S.J. ‘87 presided.
NINTH GRADE FATHER AND SON DAY The class of 2027 enjoyed a special day with their dads on September 9. From athletic to non-athletic events, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
TRUNK OR TREAT Members of the class of 2025 participated in the annual Trunk or Treat on October 31. Special needs students from area schools visited campus to collect treats from our Wolverines, who decorated their cars, for a fun-filled event.
FERIA DE LA HISPANIDAD The World Languages Department hosted the annual Feria de la Hispanidad for the school community. This event highlights the richness of the Hispanic culture and includes traditional foods from Spanishspeaking countries and live music.
FALL PLAY DEBUTS OUTDOORS Under the direction of Mr. Carlos Acevedo, our thespians took the stage from November 1-4 and performed The Fantasticks. This comedic show took place in the Ignatian Center Patio for the first time.
FOUNDING OF NATION Members of the class of 2028 traveled to Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., as part of the Founding of a Nation program. This patriotic learning experience enhances the lessons learned in the classroom and includes various museum visits and daily workshop sessions.
TENTH GRADE MOTHER AND SON DAY Mother and Son Day for the class of 2026 was held on September 30. Students and their moms had a great time and even took dance lessons!
CHRISTMAS CONCERTS Band members from all grades performed during the two-night Christmas Concert Series. From classic carols, like Jingle Bells, to more complex pieces like a jazzy christmas medley, these Wolverines were making a joyful noise to celebrate Christmas.
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ATHLETICS NEWS
The Varsity Football team finished their season 5-7. The team was a Regional Semifinalist. The Junior Varsity Football team finished their season 2-4.
The Varsity Swimming & Diving team finished their season 10-0-1 and were District 3A12 Champions and 3A-4 Regional RunnerUps. Eight swimmers competed in the State Championships led by Christopher De Angulo ‘26, who finaled in the 50 freestyle and led the 200 Medley and 400 Freestyle Relays to 10th place finishes. The Middle School team had an undefeated season. Alec De Angulo ‘28 finished the season undefeated, winning all of his individual and relay events throughout the season while having the fastest time of all middle schoolers in every event.
The Varsity Golf team finished their season as District Runner-Ups. Junior Lorenzo Rodriguez captured the individual state title, a first in school history.
The Varsity Bowling team finished their season 10-1 with a 5th place finish in the Youth Fair tournament and as District Champions in Class 1A. The team finished 27th in the State Championship.
The Varsity Cross Country team captured their seventh consecutive State Title. Belen’s win marks the 15th team title in school history, the most of any team in any class in the State of Florida. The team won the Nike NXR Southeast Regional Championship in Cary, North Carolina and finished 4th at the Nike NXN Nationals in Portland, Oregon. Head Coach Frankie Ruiz ’96 was honored as the Joe Newton Coach of the Year.
The Middle School Cross Country team won the Private School division for the 5th consecutive year (8th overall) and was named the Top Team in the State regardless of class with the fastest team time of the meet. Nicholas Veloso ‘28 became Belen’s fourth Individual State Champion and also broke the meet record with a time of 9:36.90. Our top 30 finishers were Jack Michalak (3rd), Sebastian Fernandez (11th), Daniel Garmendia (23rd) and Alejandro Alvarado (28th).
The Middle School Football team finished their season undefeated, 4-2-1. The 6th Grade Football team finished their season 2-6.
The Middle School Golf finished the season 4-5.
The Crew team represented Belen at the The Sixth Grade Basketball team finished Royal Canadian Henley, winning the with a record of 11-2. Efficiency Trophy and three gold medals. The team won six gold, four silver, and two Bronze medals at the Head of the Hooch in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The team closed out the fall season at the Plant High Winter Sprints and brought home 10 Gold, two silver, and two bronze medals.
The Middle School Volleyball Gold team finished with a record of 9-4. They also won the Belen Jesuit Tournament. The Middle School Volleyball Blue team finished with a record of 1-7
Nine students committed to playing their sport at the next level. Congratulations to Jordan Cordero (Baseball) Santa Fe College, Brandon DeGoti (Baseball) Ohio State, Joshua Ruiz (Cross Country) University of Florida, Evan Torres (Cross Country) University of Miami, Ernie Echevarría (Baseball) University of Pennsylvania, Andrew Candela (Larosse) Oberlin College, Gavench Marcelin (Football) Florida Atlantic University, Andres Miyares (Football) University of North Carolina, and Joseph Ruiz (Cross Country) University of Pennsylvania.
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A Place to Call Home Ricardo Echeverria ‘84 I started my Belen journey back in 1978 as a 7th grader. My first three years, 7th through 9th grades, were at the Little Havana campus. The next three years, 10th through 12th grades, were at the then-new campus in Tamiami. I was in 10th grade in August of 1981 when the new Tamiami campus opened. I had such a great experience at Belen and I’m proud to be a member of the class of 1984. Fun fact: the class of 1984 was the only class to complete all three years of Jr. High school at the Little Havana campus and all three years of High school at the Tamiami campus. Both campuses were very different in terms of size and location. The Little Havana campus was much smaller and was located in an urban area. The Tamiami campus is much larger and is located in a suburban area. However, both were very similar because they were a home away from home for me. The dedicated Jesuits, faculty, and staff ensured we had everything we needed and made us feel like we were at home. Home is where a family lives and that is what I had at both campuses. After graduating from Belen, I attended FIU and received a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management. In 1995, I was blessed to marry the love of my life and soulmate, Irene. We have two great children, Adriana and Ricky ‘23. In January 2017, I started a new journey and returned to Belen when I was hired as Executive Director of Facilities. I have now experienced Belen as a student, as a member of the staff and as a parent. I am also looking forward to being a Belen grandparent someday. Since then, I have been honored to oversee many construction projects that 6
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have truly transformed our campus over the last seven years. These projects include the expansion of the Sarría Family Dining Hall, the Gian Zumpano Aquatic Center, The Arroyo Quad, the Our Lady of Belen Chapel, the Roberto C. Goizueta Innovation Center and the remodeling of 36 classrooms. Current projects include the Roberto Surís Athletic Center and the remodeling of the baseball fields. As a staff member, I have an extra sense of duty to ensure the Belen experience continues for many generations. I am very appreciative and blessed to be part of the Belen Community. Mom and Dad, thank you very much for your sacrifice and sending me to Belen.
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The Rick Raimúndez ‘90 Alumni Tailgate October 20, 2023
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A Journey of Faith, Beauty, and Devotion By Lisa Morales | Special Contributor
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housands of visitors from the Belen Jesuit community and beyond attended Faith, Beauty, and Devotion: Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque Paintings. The exhibition commenced on September 14th with a private event at the Olga M. & Carlos A. Saladrigas Art Gallery. From the public opening through Miami Art Week (Art Basel) to the closing reception on December 16th, the gallery hosted various cultural programs, including a VIP Dinner with Chef Bouza, Whiskey and Cigar, Family, and Poetry Nights, and an Italian Wine Tasting. The exhibition welcomed students from numerous Archdiocese of Miami schools and students and alumni from Boston College and South Florida universities.
in Florence, Italy, and parents of two Belen students, eagerly embraced the idea of creating a special exhibition. The preparation time proved challenging, primarily due to the documentation process required for shipping such rare paintings from Italy. However, in collaboration with Sylvie Daubar-San Juan, Humanities Department Chairperson and Director of the Olga M. & Carlos A. Saladrigas Art Gallery, their joint effort was a success! Mrs. San Juan remarked, “The influences on artists in the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods were illuminated, along with the patronage, symbolism, and provenance of the compositions. Through the exhibition and programming, we aimed to provide a unique experience for our visitors, enabling them to engage with these paintings and explore the mysteries concealed within them.” And a unique experience it was in the Magic City, where
Visitors were enthralled by an exhibition of this scale and significance in South Florida. Belen displayed thirty paintings dating back to the same century as St. Francis of Assisi’s canonization, culminating in the Baroque period—a time marked by conflicting religions. This thoughtfully curated timeline of rare masterworks, most of which had never traveled to the U.S., included paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, Tintoretto, the Circle of Caravaggio, and a Saint Sebastian painting recently attributed to the master Titian.
The Beginnings A connection and conversation led to a magical and whirlwind adventure back to the Renaissance. Fr. Guillermo M. GarcíaTuñón, S.J. ‘87 (Fr. Willie), President of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School—who considers himself a frustrated art historian— initiated the idea of bringing paintings by European art masters to Belen during a dinner with Federico Gandolfi Vannini and his wife, Daisy Díaz. The couple, owners of Frascione Arte 10
museums, Art Basel, satellite fairs, and local galleries primarily focus on contemporary art. Perhaps “Faith, Beauty, and Devotion” represented the largest display of paintings from these historical periods and a private collection ever to arrive in the State.
Living History Lesson Within a few months, Mrs. San Juan and the Gandolfis realized their mission: to create an exhibition serving as a “living history” lesson for Belen students, illuminating their faith. For a broader audience, there was much to glean from an art historical context. Fr. Willie confirmed, “From an educator’s perspective, this presents an exciting opportunity for our students to witness these works of art firsthand. From an art aficionado’s viewpoint, I’m incredibly eager to witness not only the religious art but also secular paintings included in this exhibition.”
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A Virtual Trip
Thank You
For those unable to travel, viewers of Faith, Beauty, and Devotion appreciated the opportunity to witness the same caliber of art found in world-class museums like the Uffizi in Florence, the National Gallery in London, or the Prado in Madrid. Additionally, many of these works were altarpieces or prized possessions typically housed in the private residences of European elites.
In conclusion, it is crucial to express gratitude to everyone who contributed to this exhibition, starting with Mrs. San Juan, Fr. Willie, Federico Gandolfi Vannini, Daisy Diaz, and the Frascione Arte team. Our heartfelt appreciation extends to our sponsors: My Father Cigars (Ambassador), Professional Art Services Group/Lydia Sudick Fine Art (Patron), Procre Tech (Patron), Rich and Nicole Aldrich (Patron), Gazitúa Family (Patron), Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald (Media Partner); Live in Italy Magazine (Media Partner); Federdoc (In-Kind); El Carajo (In-Kind); Beam Suntory (In-Kind); Mionetto (InKind).
Another captivating feature inside the gallery was The Florence Experience. Through the enchantment of a floor-to-ceiling LED display, guests were mesmerized by a virtual flight over Florence, the ‘Birthplace of the Renaissance.’
Private Devotion Appropriately, Faith, Beauty, and Devotion closed just before the Christmas school break. In an era dominated by social media, the potency of images over words resonates deeply. During the time these paintings were conceived, art served as a form of “silent speech.” Symbolism held the utmost significance in the composition, intended to communicate messages of love, forgiveness, sacrifice, devotion, sorrow, and salvation to a humble, often illiterate audience. “The beauty of the piece functions to convey the divine message to worshippers,” remarked Mr. Gandolfi Vannini about the religious paintings. As we enter the Christmas season and the year’s end, we hope that “Faith, Beauty, and Devotion” served as a poignant reminder of the visual narrative’s power to enrich our faith. Even in the 21st century, these symbols of our Christianity can continue to serve as moments of private devotion or as instructional tools that we can share with others.
IN PLAIN SIGHT / A PLENA VISTA Through the presentation of preparatory drawings, prints, paintings, sculptures, and photographs, this exhibition considers the significant role that artists of Cuban heritage have played in the history of public art in Miami. The exhibition includes works by artists such as Jose Bedia, Manuel Carbonell, Enrique Martinez Celaya, Carlos Luna, Rafael Consuegra, and Lydia Rubio, who, like the other artists in the show, have been shaped by their personal and familial experiences with Cuba, and the culture of South Florida. An assemblage of documentation gathered from twenty artists will be a unique opportunity to gain an understanding of the depth of influence these individuals have imprinted upon Miami-Dade County. Renowned art historian Dr. Carol Damian will be contributing an essay to the exhibition catalog. With the generous cooperation of Miami-Dade County Art in Public Places, the Miami-Dade Public Library System, artists, museums, and private collectors, the Saladrigas Gallery has gathered a significant selection of work related to Miami’s public art by artists of Cuban heritage. Viewing hours are available by appointment. Programming will provide extended hours and activities to increase the exhibition’s access.
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Jesuit Educated
Raul Duarte '09
Managing Partner, RTD Talent
Peter Montadas '76
President & Co-CEO, Co-Founder, Momentum Consulting Corporation
Ricardo Caporal '96
Tony Suarez '89
VP of Sales, DAOU Family Estates and Vineyards
Ricardo Cuevas '10
Founder, South Pointe Technologies
Jordi Guso '83
President, Mattoni Group
Managing Partner, Berger Singerman LLP
Luis "Wiwi" Zabala Jr '89
Manuel Feijoo '89
Sports Videographer/Producer, CBS Miami
VP, F.P.G Wholesale
Crescencio J. Ruiz '76
CFO, Outdoor Empire and Affiliates Former President of Belen Alumni Association (2020-2022)
Johnny Pineyro '90
Partner (Private Equity Real Estate), Surgent Capital
Alejandro Munoz-Suarez '86
COO, Gracious Hospitality Management (NYC)
Jonathan Leyva ‘01
CFO, CE North America LLC.
The #BJesuitEducated campaign highlights prominent alumni on our social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) to reinforce the Ignatian tradition of excellence in education, leadership, and service. These alumni only represent a small fraction of the thousands of young men educated at Belen in Cuba and in Miami that exemplify the Magis. 12
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Enhancing our
Catholic-Jesuit
By Teresa Martínez | Director of Communications
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n the summer of 2022, Fr. Guillermo (Willie) García-Tuñón, S.J., ‘87, debuted a new Strategic Plan for Belen Jesuit. Serving as the blueprint for the school, the plan restates the vision and defines the means most conducive to achieving it. Reinforcing the importance of the first pillar from the 2017 Strategic Plan, the theme remained the same - Enhancing Our Catholic-Jesuit Ethos. With that in mind, the school administration was tasked with finding innovative ways to elicit our Catholic identity, Ignatian heritage, and values into all educational disciplines. Director of Faculty Development Dr. Matthew Jordan ‘08 is tasked with leading the charge. “Fr. Willie was clear about making sure the Catholic identity was present in all lessons,” said Dr. Jordan. “The initial concern was to ensure the curriculum was not diluted. So, instead of inserting it into every lesson, we should elicit it. The goal is to help teachers see how to elicit when the fruits of that lesson allow for rich content.”
Dr. Jordan brought in Theology and Philosophy Teacher Dr. Lawrence Goodall to help undertake the task. Together, they have attended conferences, seminars, researched, and reflected to understand what Catholic identity in the curriculum means and how faith can permeate every aspect of the campus. 14
Ethos
“We are working with every subject and each teacher to see where the vocabulary of Ignatian pedagogy and spirituality are present,” said Dr. Jordan. Many teachers have already started to find ways to draw out our Catholic faith by tasking students to see beyond the lesson and to look at things differently. For example, in civics, we can develop what it means to be a legislator and how the legislative branch works, but how do you vote as a Catholic legislator? What do you do when the vote may compromise your faith and how do you, as a Catholic, respond to that? Looking at Supreme Court cases, we can examine how the court values or devalues human dignity rather than studying the precedent it sets. That’s an example of not diluting the curriculum because you’re still teaching them the importance of the cases but also making the correlation to our faith. This is an ongoing process and support is being offered every step of the way. From providing faith formation to professional development to meeting with the Office of Mission and Formation to work on lessons, the faculty is looking at their lessons with a new perspective.
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“We aren’t trying to meet a deadline,” said Dr. Jordan. “We would fail when we stop reflecting. The only way we will see if we are doing this correctly is to take the time to reflect on what we are doing and continue to grow and improve. This, of course, is a very Ignatian approach.”
Eucharistic Adoration
In addition to those efforts, Belen is participating in a national Eucharistic revival. “At the center of our lives as members of the Catholic Church is the Eucharist,” said Fr. Willie. The greatest gift Jesus left his Church is his body and blood. On that sacred night that marks the beginning of his passion, he gathered with his disciples for the Last Supper.” Efforts to promote this initiative are ongoing and include the entire Belen community. From monthly adoration of the Blessed Sacrament to a Eucharistic procession to begin Advent. “We are looking for opportunities to promote our community’s commitment and devotion to the Eucharist,” said Fr. Willie.
Principal José E. Roca ‘84 established a committee to begin the arduous process. “We are devoted to realizing the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan,” said Mr. Roca. “Belen Jesuit has always been committed to academic excellence and forming young men with a strong Catholic faith. We now embark on a comprehensive curriculum review infusing the essence of Catholic Identity in all subjects and seeking to ensure its pervasive presence in all that we do.”
The committee’s work began at the end of the last academic year, with Theology Department Chairperson Kathleen Mackle and Dr. Goodall taking the lead. “Our mandate is to design a curriculum for grades 6-12 with a directive to find ways we can present our faith in a way that will prepare our students to understand better and embrace the faith, defend the faith and continue to grow in their faith after they graduate from Belen,” said Dr. Goodall.
In the summer, Brother Hunter D’Armond, S.J. and Fr. Willie plan to lead students to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Indiana. This extraordinary event will bring together thousands of youth from around the country to share their faith experience and focus their attention on Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. The trip will be held from July 16 to July 22, 2024, and is open to current 9th, 10th, and 11th grade Belen students.
Curriculum Review
Committed to fulfilling the objectives in the Strategic Plan, the school administration is beginning the process of reviewing the curriculum across all subjects. The first subject to undergo a deep dive is theology.
The existing curriculum for the high school was revised over a decade ago and each grade was implemented one year at a time. This time around, the approach is different. The goal is to renew the entire theology curriculum through all seven grades. “We are taking special care to always keep Jesus Christ at the center of everything the students will study,” said Ms. Mackle. “It is important to us that the students grow in their intellect and experience growth in their relationship with Jesus Christ. It is not enough that they experience what they are learning with only their “head,” but they must experience what they are learning in their “hearts” as well.” “We need to examine every aspect of the school and how it serves evangelization,” said Dr. Goodall. “Then 15
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we need to explore the intellectual formation of the faith and see how it’s nourishing our students so they can have the best foundation for their adult practice of the faith.”
the included content is meaningful, digestible and achievable. As an example, there won’t be a Scripture course. Instead, we will keep Scripture at the heart of the 7-year curriculum, spread the Bible throughout the seven years of theology, and tie it to the lessons per grade. The goal will be that the graduate at graduation will have, in essence, read the whole Bible and understand it deeply and meaningfully.” The courses for grades 12, 9 and 7 are being completely redesigned, while the courses for the other grades are being tweaked.
Surveys have been sent to multiple groups within the school community to assess the status of the current curriculum and hone in on what needs to be addressed. The results are being analyzed, and the research involved has taken months of coordination, diligence and determination. The theology committee meets weekly and has made great progress, including creating a department mission statement and designing the new course content assigned to each grade level.
As the committee continues to move forward, they have completed the new curriculum for the 12th and 9th grades and continue to advance on the rest of the high school curriculum. Once ready to move into the next phase, the committee will oversee the professional development of the faculty so they are confident with the new material and are ready to deploy it to students.
“We are blessed to be working with a consultant who went through this curriculum redesign at her previous school,” said Ms. Mackle. “She has served as a guide throughout our process. With this guidance, we are creating something different from other schools, unique to Belen Jesuit. The redesigned curriculum will contain the topics from the previous curriculum, with an added emphasis on primary sources, important papal documents and influential books that will enhance each unit.” “We are designing the curriculum based on what the students need,” said Dr. Goodall. “We want to ensure
Theology Department Mission Statement The Theology Department strives to form virtuous disciples in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church, rooted in Ignatian Spirituality. The Belen graduate knows he is unconditionally loved by God the Father. Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition permeate his understanding of life. He prays and discerns with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Entrusting himself in confident love to Our Blessed Mother Mary, he defends and lives out the teachings of the Church. Participating in the sacramental life, he is committed to service and evangelization. The Belen graduate embraces his call to ongoing transformative conversion. 16
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MAGIS José Toledo ‘96
By CJ Cristóbal ‘16
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rowing up in a family that cherished service as a fundamental value, José Toledo ‘96 discovered a profound happiness derived from helping others. The pivotal moment that laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to service occurred when his family extended their home to another family, offering refuge until they could stand on their own. This act of kindness became the catalyst propelling José into a world shaped by the transformative power of service.
revere, and serve the Lord, and made it the cornerstone of his life. For José, service is not merely an action but an expression of love — a philosophy cultivated at Belen Jesuit and reinforced through the fabric of his family. His approach to service projects is deeply rooted in the understanding that service without Jesus is just a deed, but with Jesus, it transforms into a profound and genuine expression of love. Among the myriad causes close to José’s heart, Belen Youth Missions (BYM) stands out prominently. Describing the mission, José passionately states, “This mission goes beyond evangelizing and serving, providing young students with a transformative experience, allowing them to help the poorest of the poor and instilling in them a sense of service and faith through firsthand experiences.” José’s unwavering commitment to BYM spans years, and he eagerly anticipates continuing his life of service with Belen Youth Missions.
José’s trajectory of service took a profound turn when he witnessed the selflessness of his then-girlfriend’s family, now his wife, Loli. This experience imparted the invaluable lesson of serving without expecting anything in return. It shifted his perspective, emphasizing the paramount importance of keeping Christ’s love at the center of every action. Grounded in the principles of Ignatian Spirituality instilled by the Jesuits at Belen, José grasped the profound meaning of life: to praise, 18
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José emphasizes the significance of understanding service as a family guiding principle in a powerful message. He shares, “Serving not just individually but as a unit, my wife and I discovered the transformative power of giving from a position of nothing. This realization emphasized that service without Jesus is merely an action, but with Jesus, it transforms into an expression of love.”
of service guided by love, faith in God, and the unity of family. As you consider this narrative, may it encourage you to embrace the beauty of giving from a position of nothing and discover the profound impact it can have on both your life and the lives of others.” José Toledo’s life is a testament to the enduring legacy of MAGIS, an inspiration for all to embark on a journey of selfless service that transcends generations.
The Toledo family’s commitment to service extends to their children, imparting the understanding that giving up time with parents for the sake of those in need is a powerful and transformative act. The impact is evident as José’s oldest son, José, and daughter Sofía, embark on their own service missions, guided by the example set by their family. Even the youngest son Luca follows suit, embracing service as an altar boy. José leaves readers with an encouraging reflection: “May you find inspiration in the transformative power
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10 Questions 1 Alumnus Eric Couto, S.J. ‘13 What was your experience like at Belen?
I had an incredible experience as a student at Belen. I arrived in 6th grade from a small public school and without many friends attending Belen, but I instantly connected with so many students and quickly made friends with people who will be my friends for the rest of my life. There are so many memories and experiences that have shaped me and helped in forming me. The trips, athletic events, school activities, and everyday grind of being a student at Belen instilled an appreciation for the little things in life, which allows me to do the big things in life. At Belen I grew as an academic, an athlete, a person, and as a man of faith.
What type of student were you?
I was a decent academic student. I was not the best test taker, but I was a hard worker who thrived at Belen because I always did my homework and assignments. Along with my academic progress, I really found my Belen identity outside the classroom. I participated in a variety of different extracurricular activities such as Student Council, Peer Ministry, CLC, Basketball, and Track and Field. These activities showed me what it meant to be a man who is disciplined, sacrifices himself for others and works hard.
Can you describe one funny moment while you were a student?
One of the funniest and greatest moments of my time at Belen was during the Senior Skit my senior year. I acted as DQ, who was then the Dean of Men. Our theme for the year was “The fire rises” inspired by DQ and originated from the Batman movie that had just come out (The Dark Knight Rises). For the 20
skit, we filmed scenes of me in a Batman mask and dressed as DQ on the roof of Belen protecting the school and figuring out how to save the world from ending. It was quite a memorable experience in which the entire school was able to laugh and enjoy.
What is one thing that you will never forget that you learned in school?
I learned to be a man of integrity and character. Growing up, there were multiple occasions where I encountered a fork in the road. I had the choice to do the right thing or the wrong thing. I didn’t always choose the right thing, and that is precisely when Belen held me accountable for my mistakes and helped me learn from them. At the end of the day, I learned what it means to be held accountable and be treated like a man and not like a boy. The real world holds people accountable and there are consequences for things. From a very young age, Belen showed me that there are consequences for my actions and that things should be done the right way. I learned not simply to do the right thing so that I do not get in trouble, rather, I do things the right way because that is my identity and the standard of what it means to be a Belen student.
Who made an impact in your life?
While we playfully refer to him as “salty Vic,” Coach Victor Arrieta ‘95 has had a profound impact on my life. As a student, I would enter Victor’s office and settle into an old recliner, where I would talk with him. I shared my problems, successes, failures, dreams, and fears, and throughout it all, he would sit there and attentively listen. After my ramblings, he would often pose a simple question or offer wise advice. It was similar to having a much older, wiser,
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and holier best friend. Victor was the first person who truly listened to me, teaching me how to listen and care for someone, regardless of his or her situation. Another one of Victor’s admirable traits is his humility and service-oriented attitude—a man who genuinely does everything for the kids. Despite the success of his program and teams, it’s never about him; it’s always about the kids. Reflecting more deeply on this friendship, Victor demonstrated, through his example, how Jesus himself would listen and care for others, not judging them but loving them unconditionally. Victor is a true Man for Others.
What do you hold most dear?
I hold my Jesuit vocation in the highest regard. This calling to the priesthood and the Society of Jesus originated and flourished during my time at Belen. Observing the Jesuits and witnessing the way they lived their lives with immense joy, freedom, and unwavering love greatly inspired me. Their demonstration of faith and devotion to Jesus prompted me to reflect on what I, and what God, desired for my life. Belen provided me with opportunities and frameworks to connect with God and develop into a man of faith.
How has your Jesuit education shaped and helped you in your life?
My Jesuit education has helped me see the world with the eyes of Christ. I not only see people, situations, and experiences through the eyes of Jesus, but I also see Jesus in others. One example of this is when I was in 7th grade we had a bullying situation going on. I remember having a grade-wide assembly in the Roca Theatre. Mr. Ralph Ledesma had about ten students go up on stage. He began to speak about the importance of not bullying and all those typical things that counselors say about not bullying. Then Ralph points to the student in the middle and says, “imagine this is Jesus that you are bullying, would you keep bullying him?” This impacted me in a profound way. I had never thought of looking at someone as if they were Christ, especially those on the margins.
Can you describe the moment you decided to pursue your vocation to the priesthood?
I first felt the calling in the 7th grade at Belen. I was sitting in Deacon O’Malley’s Theology class when I felt an indescribable feeling of love and passion flow into my soul. I honestly cannot put into words what I felt that day. When that happened, I immediately went to speak to Fr. Willie to seek his advice. He said to me, “your vocation is like a flame, sometimes it will be burning bright and hot like it is today, but sometimes it will be barely flickering, it is your job to keep the flame alive. If this is what God wants, it will come to fruition. Go and live your life normally and trust in God.”
Has there been a moment in your Jesuit formation that has been a pivotal moment of growth?
During the Novitiate, the first two years of Jesuit Formation, a Jesuit novice must do the 30-day silent retreat called the Spiritual Exercises. During these 30 days, I encountered God in a way in which I never even considered possible. Until that point I guess I loved God, but during that retreat, I truly fell in love with Him. I finally understood in a deep and profound way that God created me, loves me, and sent his Only Son to die for me. It was during these 30 days that I was able to deepen my relationship with Jesus and understand my true Jesuit vocation.
What advice would you give students interested in the priesthood?
First, continue deepening your relationship with God. Go to Mass on Sundays, pray, and be true to who you are. Never be afraid to ask God what he wants for your life. At the end of the day, He is faithful and He will never let you down. Next, talk to a priest or someone in religious life to speak about your vocation. They can give you spiritual direction to help you discern your vocation. Lastly, live your life normally. God calls us to be faithful, not perfect. Do not try and figure everything out in one day. Live the journey of each day and ask God to help you discover your vocation. 21
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In Memoriam Vocation to Family
Please remember in your prayers these members of the Belen Jesuit community who have passed away recently.
Alumni
Marina Lucía, daughter of Felice Gorordo ‘01
Alexandra Sophía, daughter of Devin Parra ‘10
• Salvador Juncadella Gamba ‘47 • José L. Balbona ‘49 • Osvaldo Faura ‘53 • Carlos Morales ‘54 • Manuel Hidalgo ‘57 • Juan Abreu Betancourt ‘61 • José Gutiérrez Otero ‘61 • Carlos Mirambell ‘62 • Juan Bruno de la Fuente ‘76 • Javier Argamasilla ‘92
Family & Friends
Catalina Marie, daughter of Carlos Parra ‘12
Maia Charlotte, daughter of Belen teacher and coach Freidman Sifontes
Luca Alejandro, son of Belen teacher Dr. Adriana Salazar
Theodore Huxley, son of Belen teacher Francis Aguilar
Miguel Alejandro, son of Belen Teacher Luis Dinnella-Borrego and former employee Maria Virginia Dinnella-Borrego
• Rosa Tejera Baguer, widow of Arturo Baguer ’55 • Carmen G. Cossío, mother of Vicente E. ‘72 and Antolín Cossío ‘73, and great-grandmother of Julián Guerra ‘27, Andreu Sardón ‘27, Joseph Guerra ‘30 and Luca González ‘30 • Emérita Reyes, mother of Arcadio Reyes ‘76 • Julia Delgado, mother of Belen teacher Zilkia Jiménez • Stella Bosch, mother of Audley Bosch ‘94 and grandmother of Audley Bosch ‘29 • Celita Fernández, mother of Enrique ‘89, Luis ‘90 and Jorge ‘96 Fortún • Maricela Wiltz mother of Carlos ‘03 and Andrés ‘09 Wiltz • María Grisell Dinnella, mother of Belen teacher Luis Dinnella Borrego • Mireya Geilin, mother of Belen teacher Marisol Sosa and grandmother of Jack Sosa ’25 • Rubén Fernández, father of Alexander Fernández ‘79 and Luis Fernández ‘83 • Juan Lima, father of Michael Lima ‘96, and grandfather of Andrew Lima ‘29 • Diego Effio, father of Renzo Effio ‘02 • César Moreira, father of Christian A. Moreira ‘23 • Fernando Ignacio de Zárraga & Maria Margarita Terrón de Zárraga, parents of Belen teacher María de Aguiar and Fernando de Zárraga Jr. ‘90, in-laws of Richard De Aguiar ‘85, and grandparents of Richard Alexander De Aguiar ‘17, Nicolás Gabriel De Aguiar ‘20, and Luca Ignacio de Zárraga ‘25 • Adelaida Nasser, grandmother of Matthew Bravo ‘17 • Carol E. Mantz, grandmother of Anthony Castro ‘16 and Robert Castro ‘18, and mother-in-law of Antonio Castro ‘86. • José G. Cabrera, grandfather of Matthew Cabrera ‘08 • Pedro G. Portal, grandfather of Giancarlo Benítez ‘19 • Ricardo Morales, grandfather of Jerry Balepogi, Jr. ‘17 • Roberto Ibarra, grandfather of Brett ‘10 and Luke Hernández ‘16 • Cira Maria Villaverde, sister of Raúl Villaverde ‘56 and grandmother of Albert Maury ‘16 • Fr. Sergio Figueredo, S.J., former Belen Jesuit Principal 23
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Alumni Gatherings
Class of 1978 Dinner at Casa Cuba.
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Néstor Machado ‘91, Francesco Armstrong ‘17, Javi Pérez-Abreu ‘78, Frank Quesada ’98, Julián Legido ’12 and Alain Bonvecchio ‘17 in Lago di Como, Italy.
Luis “Wiwito” Zabala ‘89 with newly appointed defensive backs coach for the Washington Commanders, Cristián García ‘13.
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Reyes Magis Thanksgiving Food Drive
Christmas Toy Drive
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President of the Association
A
s we step into 2024, it’s crucial to acknowledge the successes of the past year, particularly as we celebrated the centennial of our association. Amid numerous events throughout the year, I would like to highlight a few of my favorites. Our year-long celebration commenced last January at the Our Lady of Belen Chapel, where we reenacted the first mass and meeting that marked the inception of our association. The beauty of this Chapel has granted us a splendid space to gather for mass and celebrate sacraments for our community. Following this, the Tombola unfolded, attracting thousands to a delightful weekend of food, fun, and brotherhood. Not only did it create memorable moments, but it also raised essential funds to support students in need of financial assistance. Before we knew it, March arrived, bringing with it the induction of another outstanding class into the Belen Hall of Fame. We welcomed twenty new members, forever honoring those who contributed, excelled, developed, or supported the Belen community. On May 20th, we hosted a splendid party at the Bayshore Club in Coconut Grove to commemorate our diamond anniversary—a well-deserved celebration after our first one hundred years. Judging from the feedback received,
it seems our community cherished this event more than any other I’ve been involved in. In June, we ventured into something new—the Father Sardiña S.J. ’45 Memorial Fishing Tournament. Led by the dedicated committee of Eddie Macias ’02 and Albert Paradela ’11, the event became one of the largest fishing tournaments in the State of Florida, raising over $60,000 for the Fr. Jorge Sardiña, S.J. ‘45 Scholarship Fund. The second half of the year witnessed our Professional Sections hosting remarkable events, both in person and virtually. A notable session for younger alumni on financial planning for future Belen attendance is available on our YouTube page. Come October, we gathered during Homecoming for The Rick Raimúndez ‘90 Tailgate and Homecoming Game in the Garrido Family Plaza—a delightful afternoon of food, drinks, music, and overall enjoyment. Wrapping up the year were my favorite events, the Magis Thanksgiving and Christmas Toy Drive at the Gesu Church in downtown Miami. During Thanksgiving, we provided meals to nearly 100 senior citizens, complete with turkeys and trimmings. In Christmas, we distributed toys to children in the parish and the community, overcoming the loss of a corporate partner with the generous support of our community. December marked our largest Beyond Belen mentoring event in the Arroyo Quad, with almost 200 juniors and seniors and over 100 alumni participating. The event’s growth has been phenomenal, and I encourage those who haven’t participated in the past to join us in 2024. Lastly, as January traditionally involves New Year resolutions, I encourage you to set one that can be accomplished in a few short minutes. Please log on to BConnected at belenalumni.org, click on the top right down arrow, and select edit profile. Ensure all your information is correct—phone, email, current employer, and industry. We need to make sure this great tool has the latest information so we can leverage it for our current students and alumni. Wishing you and your families the very best for 2024! AMDG José ‘Pep’ López-Varela
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