by Marie Dennis
Pax Christi International Co-President
The Executive Committee of Pax Christi International is pleased to announce the appointment of José Henríquez, from El Salvador, as the next Secretary General of Pax Christi International. José has been actively engaged with the international peace movement since he coordinated the first Pax Christi Latin America and Caribbean Consultation in 2007. He brings to Pax Christi International a deep personal commitment to peace and social justice.
José has a master’s degree in development management from American University in Washington, DC; a degree in sociology and Catholic social teaching from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome; and undergraduate degrees in theology and education.
For many years, José has worked on diverse initiatives with a focus on social justice, peace and human rights. He has accompanied communities experiencing structural violence, and has been deeply inspired by their courageous struggle for the realization of their rights. Education on social justice issues – to young people in particular, has also been an endeavour close to his heart.
As executive director of the Fundación Marista, José was part of the Latin American Marist solidarity network. He also served as chair of the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission of the Guatemalan Conference of Women and Men Religious (CONFREGUA).
José’s personal commitment and professional skills will build on the organizational development process with which Pax Christi International has been engaged over the past several years. He will take office in September.