Diocese of Ensenada

Monsignor Rafael Valdez Torres was born on November 4, 1959, in Santiago Tangamandapio, Michoacán, the third of seven siblings in a close-knit, blessed family. From a young age, he heard the Lord's call, embarking on a solid path of discernment, prayer, and academic preparation: in 1971, he entered the Minor Seminary to begin his initial formation; in 1977, he continued his higher studies in Philosophy and Theology at the Major Seminary of the Diocese of Zamora. Higher Studies: He obtained a Licentiate degree in Philosophy from the prestigious Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy, thereby strengthening his theological and pastoral vision. Before being called to the episcopacy, Msgr. Rafael Valdez Torres faithfully served the People of God as a priest for over 28 years, having been ordained on February 9, 1985, at the Cathedral of Zamora. Initial Parish Service (1985–1991): He served as an associate vicar at San Pedro Apóstol Parish in Venustiano Carranza. Formation of Future Priests: He served as Prefect of Studies (1988–1990) and Professor of Philosophy (1990–1994) at the Diocesan Seminary of Zamora. Pastoral Care of Communities (1991–2004): He served with pastoral zeal as Pastor of San Antonio Parish (Ocampo) and later at Cristo Rey Parish (Jacona), where he also coordinated the Pastoral Vicariate. Institutional Leadership (2004–2013): He assumed the role of Rector of the "Señor de los Milagros" (Lord of Miracles) Sanctuary and, simultaneously, Pastor of San Juan Nuevo. Church Administration: Throughout much of his priestly ministry, he transparently managed the needs of his fellow priests as the Bursar of the diocesan "Priestly Mutual Aid Fund." Recognizing his life's witness and his dedication to the Gospel, the Holy Father Francis canonically appointed him Bishop of the Diocese of Ensenada on May 21, 2013. His ordination and episcopal consecration took place on July 31, 2013, the date on which he assumed the episcopal chair at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Since then, Monsignor Rafael Valdez Torres has walked alongside the faithful of Ensenada and San Quintín, promoting synodality, the strengthening of pastoral ministries, and a human-centered approach to caring for the families of Baja California.