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Begin Your Journey
The Saint Juan Diego Institute welcomes Catholic clergy and pastoral leaders who desire to strengthen their Spanish language skills and deepen their ability to serve Hispanic Catholic communities.
Our admissions process is designed to be simple, personal, and supportive—from your initial inquiry to your arrival in Querétaro.
Who May Apply?
The program is designed for:
Bishops
Priests
Permanent Deacons
Seminarians
Religious Sisters and Brothers
Directors of Hispanic Ministry
Catholic Pastoral Leaders
Participants from different levels of Spanish proficiency are welcome. A basic knowledge of Spanish is helpful, but the program is designed to support participants as they develop greater confidence and practical communication skills.
Admission Considerations
Admission Considerations
Applicants should:
Be actively involved in Catholic ministry, formation, or pastoral service.
Demonstrate a genuine desire to serve Hispanic Catholic communities.
Be willing to participate fully in the academic, cultural, pastoral, and spiritual dimensions of the program.
Be prepared to live and learn in an immersive Spanish-speaking environment.
Complete the application process and provide the requested documentation.
The Application Process
1. Submit an Inquiry
1. Submit an Inquiry
Contact the Institute to request information about the program, availability, and application process.
2. Complete the Application
2. Complete the Application
Submit the online application with your personal, ministry, and contact information.
3. Provide Recommendation
3. Provide Recommendation
Applicants may be asked to provide a recommendation from their bishop, religious superior, seminary rector, or appropriate ecclesial authority.
4. Application Review
4. Application Review
The Institute reviews each application and confirms the applicant's eligibility and readiness for the program.
5. Receive Confirmation
5. Receive Confirmation
Accepted participants receive an official confirmation with information about enrollment, payment, travel preparation, and arrival in Querétaro.
6. Prepare for Your Experience
6. Prepare for Your Experience
Before arrival, participants receive orientation and practical information to help them prepare for their four-week immersion experience.
Program Information
Location
Querétaro, Mexico
Dates
January 5–30, 2027
Duration
Four weeks
Investment
USD $4,500
Format
In-person residential immersion
What Your Investment Includes
The program investment includes:
Spanish and pastoral instruction
Housing
Meals
Cultural experiences
Selected pilgrimages and excursions
Local transportation related to program activities
Spiritual formation experiences
Certificate of Completion
Airfare to and from Mexico, personal expenses, and items not specifically listed above are not included.
For Dioceses and Religious Communities
For Dioceses and Religious Communities
The Institute welcomes dioceses, seminaries, religious communities, and Catholic organizations interested in sending clergy or pastoral leaders for formation.
We encourage diocesan leaders to contact us directly to discuss participant recommendations, group participation, scheduling, and program logistics.
Questions About Admissions?
Questions About Admissions?
Our team is available to assist you with questions about eligibility, the application process, travel preparation, accommodations, and the program experience.
Your Ministry. Your Mission. Your Journey.
Your Ministry. Your Mission. Your Journey.
Learning Spanish is an investment in relationships.
The Saint Juan Diego Institute is committed to helping pastoral leaders cross linguistic and cultural boundaries so they can serve Hispanic Catholics with greater confidence, understanding, and compassion.
We look forward to welcoming you to Querétaro.
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