Beatriz Pachon Brings Experience, Devotion to Spanish Apostolate

By Alfonso Aguilar
Herald Staff Writer
(From the issue of 5/8/03)

Professional accountant Beatriz Pachón (pictured at right) recently joined the Spanish Apostolate Office as the new coordinator of the Pastoral Program. In that capacity Pachón is the principal assistant to Father Ovidio Pecharromán, executive director of the office, and liaison with all the Hispanic diocesan groups and their presidents.

In the four previous years, Pachón, a native of Colombia, worked for Fairfax County Public Schools as a Spanish teacher and liaison between the schools and Hispanic parents.

Before she and her family moved to this region, Pachón worked for an accounting firm in Long Island, N.Y, devoting her personal time to her family and faith.

Once in Virginia, Pachón adopted Nativity Church in Burke as her new parish. Her devotion and solidarity led to her being chosen as director of the church’s prayer group for two years. Pachón also joined the Charismatic Renewal Movement seven years ago and since then has been an active member, now in the local chapter led by Fr. José Eugenio Hoyos of Holy Family Church in Dale City. Among other activities, this group promotes the formation of prayer groups in many parishes, celebrates healing Masses and organizes retreats and workshops with famous preachers.

It was in her local parish that Pachón met Father Ovidio Pecharromán, who is in charge of celebrating the Spanish Mass every Saturday evening. But Pechón never imagined that some day she would be working with her priest serving as his right hand.

Pachón’s duties include daily meetings with Father Pecharromán to review the most important tasks and their progress, preparing the annual budget of the office, maintain permanent contact with the seven Hispanic diocesan groups —Family, Liturgy, Vocations, Christian Life, Catechism, Charismatic Renewal and Youth.

In addition to her daily duties, she is currently working with lay people for the incoming General Assembly, assisting couples who help those who will be married and helping organizers of the Picnic of the Hispanic Catholic Family, which will take place at Bull Run Park.

"I am very, very happy with this new job," said Pachón. "I am learning how this office works and how it could serve better our people. I appreciate that Father Pecharromán gives you the tranquility and freedom needed to perform a quality job," she said.

Although she was the last person to submit her resume, she was selected for her experience and qualifications.

"Beatriz Pachón is a very professional and well-prepared person, with an extensive background in accounting and a life dedicated to her faith," said Father Pecharromán. "We feel lucky to have her with us," he said.

In addition to Father Pecharromán and his new assistant, the staff includes Antonio Pérez-Alcalá, coordinator of Youth Programs; Sister Carmen Guerrero, coordinator of the Pastoral Institute of Formation; José Manuel Escalante, technical assistant, and Graciela Márquez, secretary.

Beatriz Pachón is married to Jorge Pachón. The couple three daughters — Lina, 16, Alexandra, 11, and Sarah, 4. 

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