Jose-Luis Peralta, OFM, has spent countless hours hard at work seeking his United States citizenship. Fr. Jose Luis had already completed an interview with a naturalization officer and was patiently waiting to take his citizen exam. On Monday, June 22, 2020, he completed the citizen exam, and passed it flying colors! After passing his exam, he immediately took an oath of allegiance to the United States and received his naturalization certificate. Usually, this happens at a scheduled public ceremony with many new citizens, and their friends, families, and well-wishers present; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, these ceremonies are currently suspended. Despite these challenges, Fr. Jose Luis did not have to celebrate this moment alone. Erasmo Romero, OFM, who became a citizen almost precisely two years ago on June 15, 2018, accompanied Fr. Jose Luis. Neither Fr. Jose Luis nor Fr. Erasmo realized that they would both be returning to Casa
Guadalupe Friary as United States citizens- what a joyous surpise! Congratulations, Fr. Jose Luis!