Our brother Fernando Abalos Murillo died on May 6 at 82 years of age, in the religious community of the Parish of the Sacred Hearts in Madrid, where he had lived his final years.
Father Fernando entered the novitiate in El Escorial in 1950, made his temporary vows on September 8, 1951 and was ordained a priest in 1957.
With a solid philosophical and theological formation and a great love for the Congregation, Father Fernando developed various services in our religious family. In 1971, he was appointed Coordinator of Missions, with residence in Rome. He served as General Councilor in Rome from 1976 to 1982. He was member of the leadership of the "Movement for a Better World", also headquartered in Rome, from 1987-1990.
He spent some years in Japan, mainly in attention to Latino immigrants. Upon his return to Spain, he was asked to be director of the magazine "Reinado Social,” to which he brought an update and then modernized under the new title of “21”.
He was a religious with an open view, always in dialogue with society. He loved his homeland, Rioja, and his family. He cultivated friendships. He had good relationships with those around him, particularly connected with the great family of “21,” especially the editorial team and management. With great vital and intellectual curiosity, every day he kept up with the news of the Church and the world. He was a free, courageous and determined man. He actively opted for the Church of Vatican II and felt a great admiration for Pope Francisco.
Let us ask the Father of Love to welcome forever Fernando our brother into his bosom, a man consecrated to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary "in whose service he lived and died."
His funeral will be held next Monday, May 11th, at 20 h.
in the parish of the Sacred Hearts of Madrid.
05/06/2015