On March 13, 2025, Father James de Cendra, D.C.J.M., principal of St. Mary Catholic Virtue School, officially became a United States citizen — a milestone that marks the ten-year anniversary of his arrival from Spain.
Father de Cendra came to Colorado in 2015 as part of his ministry with the Disciples of the Hearts of Jesus and Mary, a Spanish religious order committed to forming minds and hearts in virtue through the vocation of teaching. He has served as principal at St. Mary School in Littleton since 2021.
“It became clear to me that citizenship was not something I had to work for, but rather that it would be a gift,” said Fr. de Cendra. “Like any Catholic, we’ve been adopted by God through Baptism — and I feel adopted by this country.”
To celebrate, the school held a special assembly on March 12, where students waved American flags and chanted “U.S.A.” as Fr. de Cendra entered the gym. After prayer and the school’s mission statement, students sang “God Bless America” to their beloved principal.
In his remarks, Fr. de Cendra emphasized the virtue of piety and the call to honor the gift of citizenship. “Out of gratitude for being adopted by this beautiful country, I will have to grow in piety… I invite you to honor your country, to serve your country, and to die for your country.”
The celebration highlighted the unity and joy that define the St. Mary’s community. “We have so much to celebrate,” said Vice Principal Joyce Russell. “Every time someone walks through our doors, they see the excitement of our students — and this moment was a symbol of hope.”
This year, St. Mary Parish and School are observing the “Jubilee of the Beating Heart,” a theme that resonates deeply with the school’s mission and Fr. de Cendra’s journey. “God is confirming our mission here,” he said. “Citizenship is a sign of His providence.”
For the community at St. Mary’s, Fr. de Cendra’s citizenship is more than a legal designation — it is a symbol of hope, mission, and belonging. “He’s a fantastic leader,” said Patricia Kruse, a kindergarten teacher. “His goal is to lead our students to sainthood.”
Though his path to citizenship is complete, Fr. de Cendra’s mission continues: drawing souls to Christ — one day, one Mass, and one student at a time.
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