On May 1, the Gran Canarian priest Eloy Alberto Santiago Santiago (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 1973) will assume the position of bishop of Tenerife, taking over from Bernardo Álvarez Palmer who is retiring from the Nivarean diocese. Despite his youth, the new prelate possesses considerable experience. He has served as a diplomat for the Holy See in various locations including the Vatican, Colombia, South Africa, and Great Britain. Additionally, he has been a chaplain to the Pope, a professor of theology, and has worked as a pastor in several communities across the islands. The episcopal motto he has chosen is UT Ministeraret (“to serve”), which, as he admits, has been a guiding principle throughout his priesthood. In light of the upcoming Holy Week, Diario de Noticias took the opportunity to interview the incoming bishop to gain insight into the priest and individual who will shortly lead the Catholic community in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
In his initial comments, he revealed that his appointment as bishop of Tenerife took him by surprise and was unforeseen. Does starting your episcopal journey in your homeland evoke a sense of special excitement or increased responsibility?
“I would argue it is more a matter of special excitement, as the responsibility that comes with being a bishop is linked to the service provided, regardless of location. However, being here in our homeland, in our islands, with an understanding of our ecclesial and societal context certainly brings about special joy and enthusiasm, along with an exhilarating challenge.”
The episcopal motto chosen is ‘Ut Ministerare’, meaning “to serve.” What inspired this choice?
“I selected those words from the Gospel of St. Mark as they have consistently accompanied me throughout my priestly journey. It encapsulates what Jesus describes in his own life: he came not to be served, but to serve and to give his life in rescue for many. From a young age, this new chapter in my life has been influenced by that message.”
As a priest, you have also been a diplomat of the Holy See with significant international experience in the Vatican, Colombia, South Africa, and Great Britain. Additionally, you have served as a chaplain to His Holiness, a theology professor, and a trainer at the Diocesan Seminary, as well as a pastor in various locations across the islands. Where have you felt closest to God and where have you connected with people the most?
“While it might appear to be a complex answer, I must assert that in each of those roles I’ve undertaken within the Church, the closeness to both God and people resides in your very being as a priest. Whether one is engaged solely in prayer or in active apostolate, it remains true that certain settings, such as parishes, may provide a more direct experience of that closeness.”
What key priorities do you set for yourself as the leader of the Nivariense diocese?
“The foremost and ultimate priority is undoubtedly to support evangelisation, proclaiming Jesus Christ as the one who can provide meaning and fulfilment to our lives and our society. Right now, as I commence this new mission, my primary focus is to get to know the diocese, which entails listening to people, discerning priorities, and working collaboratively in a synodal fashion, as urged by the Pope.”
In discussing the pastoral challenges the Church faces, you mention factors such as the secularism of a society living as if God does not exist, the weakened faith experience of many baptised individuals, the scourge of abuse, the scarcity of vocations, and pervasive pessimism. Is the Church in crisis, is society in crisis, or are both facing a crisis?
“It is impossible to deny that we are living in challenging times. It is paradoxical to observe significant advancements in science, communication, and many other positive developments for humanity and the entire creation, while simultaneously appearing to regress in our interpersonal and communal relationships, becoming less humane and perpetuating injustices.”
Should there be a greater promotion of women’s presence within the Catholic Church? Do you support women’s access to the priesthood?
“I would hesitate to say that we need to promote the presence of women, as they are already integral to many fundamental pillars of our communities and faith experience within families. What we should focus on now is empowering the laity’s co-responsibility in the Church’s mission, both inside and outside the Church. The feminine genius must contribute to the Church’s life. Fundamentally, we possess equality stemming from our baptism, as we are all children of God, and vocations and ministries arise within this community as secondary and diverse, nurtured by the Holy Spirit while always maintaining our primary unity.”
What are your thoughts regarding institutions, groups, and citizens of the Canary Islands in response to the immigration crisis? Are we sufficiently supportive?
“The response being displayed in our islands is, at the very least, commendable. Despite our limited resources, we strive to accommodate a significant number of individuals exceeding our capabilities. In general, I believe that the Canarians demonstrate solidarity and openness to welcome others, though this sentiment can clash when considering that other institutions, beyond our autonomous community, are not doing all they can or should.”
Diocesan Caritas is doing remarkable work for the most vulnerable in the Canary Islands. Is this effort adequately acknowledged and supported by institutions?
“It appears that society, in its broad spectrum, acknowledges the work that Diocesan Caritas and the numerous volunteers and collaborators at local parishes are doing. However, I believe that this vital task requires further support, not only from institutions but from all members of the Church and the broader public.”
Do you believe the Church should adopt a more vigorous stance against sexual abuses occurring within its ranks?
“Absolutely, and we are indeed making strides. However, it is crucial that the Church not only address sexual abuse when it occurs but also works diligently to ensure it is a safe space for children and vulnerable individuals through the establishment of protocols and best practice measures which are already underway. This commitment should extend throughout society, including families. A solid sexual education grounded in respect for individuals’ dignity and sacredness is essential. Recognising them not as objects of pleasure, but as subjects of their own worth is vital in combating the spread and consumption of pornography, which often leads to addiction, especially among youth. We have much work ahead to advance the fight against this affliction both within the Church and in society.”
Pope Francis has repeatedly indicated his desire to visit the Canary Islands to witness the migration crisis along the Atlantic route. Despite the Holy Father’s delicate health, do you think there is still a possibility for him to fulfil this wish?
“In truth, I find it to be a complicated situation. His age and health issues, as recently evidenced, render it delicate. Nonetheless, Pope Francis is known for making unexpected decisions, so… who knows? It would undoubtedly be a blessing for our islands and a return to the important work being done, and it would also draw international attention to the migratory reality, potentially encouraging greater involvement from both national and international institutions.”
For many, Holy Week is primarily viewed as a holiday period. What message would you offer those individuals, especially Christians, as we reflect on the passion of Christ in these days?
“I would extend an invitation: utilise these days to delve into this remarkable and astonishing mystery of boundless love—the love of a God who became man and gave His life for us, for our happiness and salvation. Look to the cross to observe the supreme gesture of love, which encourages us not to lose hope, as Christ—our hope—will not disappoint us, as we are reminded during this year of retreat. The final word belongs to God… let us not fall into despair or surrender in life… because the last word, in this dialogue, belongs to God, the God of life and love, the God of mercy and forgiveness, who loves humanity so much that He sent His own Son not to condemn us, but to save us.”
Lastly, on a lighter note, do you think that the Virgin of Candelaria can perform a ‘miracle’ to prevent CD Tenerife from being relegated?
“I can only echo what Jesus said in the Gospel: everything is possible for the one who believes (hahaha). Nonetheless, some of my football friends have pointed out that since my appointment at the end of February, CD Tenerife appears to be improving… (hahaha). But ultimately, as we know, sport involves many factors!”
