Father Ojeda installed as pastor

ORLANDO | A loud cheer rose from the standing room only congregation when Bishop John Noonan announced Father Francisco Ojeda new pastor of St. John Vianney Parish in Orlando, Nov. 22, 2025, the feast of Christ the King. On hand for the celebration were numerous priests, including Father Carlos Cabán, former parochial administrator of the parish and former pastor Father Miguel González.

Also present were his family, staff from JMJ Pregnancy Center, the Knights of Columbus, and students from Cristo Rey Orlando High School. Father Ojeda will serve as shepherd of St. John Vianney Catholic School and Cristo Rey.

“Two profound moments meet here at this altar, the kingship of Christ and the mission of a pastor in his Church. Both remind us of one truth, Christ alone is king. Not us, not the world, not the divisions of the world, not our fears or limitations, only Christ,” Father Ojeda said. “Our King reigns from the cross. (His life) is poured out completely.”

He hailed the “blended cultures” of St. John Vianney as a weekly “Pentecost,” with the gathering of so many from different countries and traditions. “This is heaven’s preview — a communion of cultures united in the love of Jesus Christ,” he said. Symbolizing that was the beautifully represented by the “sawdust carpet” created by the St. Martin de Porres ministry, a custom originating in Spain and popular in native Mexican culture.

For the first time, a choir comprised of St. John Vianney students and parishioners joined in song for the celebratory occasion. After Mass, sixth-grader Nicole presented Father Ojeda with a lantern filled with messages of love and appreciation from all 500 St. John Vianney students.

St. John Vianney parishioner, Connie Gill, expressed the sentiments of those gathered saying, “We are so happy he is here. He’s brought such joy to our parish.”

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, December 04, 2025