Father Armando Leyva’s journey to the priesthood began at a remarkably young age. Born in Namiquipa, Chihuahua, Mexico, he was raised by Augustinian Recollect priests from the age of two. By the time he was 11, he had already taken his first formal step toward a life of ministry, entering the Minor Seminary in Sisoguichi, Chihuahua.
His calling took him throughout Mexico as he continued his education and formation for the priesthood. He studied in Durango before entering the Major Conciliar Seminary of Durango in 1978, where he studied philosophy. He later continued his theological studies at the Major Seminary of Zacatecas from 1984 to 1988.
On July 24, 1988, years of study and dedication culminated in his ordination to the priesthood by Bishop Hilario Chavez Joya in Santa Ana Namiquipa, Chihuahua.
Father Armando began his priestly ministry in the Prelature of Cuauhtémoc-Madera, serving there from 1988 to 1993. His journey then took him across the Atlantic to Rome, where he pursued postgraduate studies in Pastoral Theology at the Lateran University from 1993 to 1994.
After returning to Mexico, Father Armando spent time working with the State Transit Department in the city of Chihuahua before beginning a new chapter of his life in the United States.
In 1996, he moved to Los Angeles and helped establish a Hispanic community within the American Catholic Church, serving that growing community through 1999.
In May 1999, Father Armando founded the Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity. More than 27 years later, he continues to serve the community he helped create and remains its parish pastor today.
From a young boy raised by priests in Chihuahua, to seminarian, priest, student in Rome, and ultimately pastor and founder of his own parish community, Father Armando’s life has been defined by faith, service, and a lifelong commitment to ministry.
Fun Facts
Favorite Quote: “My life is Christ”
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Coconut
Soundtrack to your life: Disco music
Favorite Disney Movie: “The Lion King”
Favorite Event Memory: ” my priesthood ordination”
Your Nickname: “Padre”