Father Jaén's departure, scheduled for April 2026, marks the end of a three-year period during which his dedication has been widely acknowledged. The archconfraternity of Nuestra Señora del Carmen has expressed its gratitude for his tireless work on behalf of the Virgen del Carmen and for keeping the spirit of the order's founders alive.
“"Our beloved and endearing Father Paco is leaving for Seville to be prior there. During this time, he has always been with us, working tirelessly for the Virgen del Carmen and to keep alive the spirit of our holy founders."
The corporation highlighted his commitment to the community, his support for the confraternities of the house and the school, and especially the impetus and value he always provided to the young members of the archconfraternity. Among his most notable achievements is his initiative for the declaration of the temple as a sanctuary of the Mother of Carmen, as well as his comforting sermons and his constant support in all activities organized by the archconfraternity.
In his place, Father Fray Javier de María will assume the position of prior of the San José convent and rector of the Carmen sanctuary. His appointment follows the fourth Provincial Chapter of the Discalced Carmelites, held in Ávila.
Father Fray Javier de María, born in Almodóvar del Campo in 1982, joined the Order of Discalced Carmelites in September 2001 in Salamanca. He completed his novitiate in Castellón and his temporary profession in Granada and Salamanca, culminating in his solemn profession on October 4, 2008, in Medina del Campo, Valladolid. His priestly formation began at the Theological Institute of the Diocese of Toledo, where he was ordained a priest in the Primate Cathedral.
