Bishop of Santa Clara
Marcelo Arturo González Amador, Bishop of Santa Clara. He was born on January 16, 1956, in Placetas, Las Villas. He grew up on the "Arroyón" farm at the "San José" sugar mill, where he completed his primary education. He continued his studies in Placetas and later at the Tony Santiago Pre-University Institute in Manicaragua—the first institution of its kind established in the rural areas of the former Las Villas province. After finishing high school, he entered the San Basilio Magno Seminary in Santiago de Cuba and later transferred to the San Carlos and San Ambrosio Seminary in Havana. He was ordained a priest on December 18, 1983, by Msgr. Fernando Prego Casal. During his priestly ministry, he served in various parishes within the Diocese of Santa Clara, including communities such as the Cathedral, Nuestra Señora del Buenviaje, and other locations. He also served as diocesan chancellor and advisor to the magazine *Amanecer*, in addition to being responsible for diocesan catechesis and vocations. Episcopacy: On October 31, 1998, Pope John Paul II appointed him Titular Bishop of Segia and Auxiliary Bishop of Santa Clara. He was consecrated bishop on December 20 of that year by Msgr. Prego Casal. Following the death of Msgr. Prego, he was named diocesan administrator; on June 4, 1999, he was appointed Bishop of Santa Clara, formally taking office on July 18, 1999. Participation and Legacy: Msgr. González Amador has played a prominent role in the Cuban Church, participating in the 10th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops at the Vatican in 2001. He also served as coordinator of the commission for Pope John Paul II's visit to Cuba. Msgr. Marcelo is known for his simplicity and human sensitivity—qualities he conveys in his homilies and conversations. His episcopal motto is: "Trust in the Lord and do good" (Psalm 37:3).