A new service of fraternity, wisdom, and evangelical zeal
The Chapter of the Vice-Province of Bolivia, held in Samaipata from 22 to 26 September 2025, has elected Br. Rafael Guzmán Gabriel, OP, as the new Vice-Provincial Prior. On the same day, his election was confirmed by the Master of the Order, Br. Gerard Francisco Timoner III, OP. Br. Rafael formally accepted the office, entrusting his mission to the Lord and to the intercession of our Holy Father Dominic.
Br. Rafael Guzmán Gabriel, OP, was born on 29 December 1981. He entered the Order of Preachers in 2007 in Cochabamba (Bolivia); made his simple profession in January 2010 in Cusco (Peru); his solemn profession on 14 January 2014; and was ordained a priest on 14 January 2015. He holds a strong background in philosophy and theology and has dedicated his ministry to preaching the Gospel and offering spiritual accompaniment—especially to young people, families, and communities seeking to integrate their faith with personal and emotional well-being.
Throughout his ministry, Br. Rafael has skillfully combined pastoral work with academic formation and a thoughtful media presence. He has preached and taught in retreats, workshops, and formation programs, distinguished by a clear, compassionate, and deeply human style. His preaching reflects a Dominican synthesis between spiritual tradition and contemporary insight, addressing the challenges of faith and human fragility in the light of the Gospel. He has also promoted communication and pastoral initiatives, fostering collaboration among friars, laypeople, and the Dominican Family in Bolivia.
Br. Rafael’s spirituality highlights that faith is not distant from human weakness but is instead a path of healing, hope, and inner peace. He often insists that the preacher’s mission is to help others rediscover that the light of God shines most clearly in human vulnerability. His life and ministry embody the Dominican motto: “To contemplate and to share with others the fruits of contemplation.”
We accompany Br. Rafael Guzmán Gabriel, OP, with our prayers as he begins his service as Vice-Provincial Prior of the Vice-Province of Bolivia, trusting that the Spirit of the Lord will guide him in fraternity, wisdom, and evangelical zeal in the years ahead.
