future oriented
shaping church leaders for the 21st century
shaping church leaders for the 21st century
The American National Catholic Theological Institute is pleased to announce the addition of the Rev. Fr. Bernardo Cardon to our faculty. Fr. Bernardo brings a wealth of experience in developing programs for lay people, and we look forward to his role as an instructor for our seminarians and others in Institute programs.
Fr. Bernardo Cardona completed his philosophical studies at Our Lady of the Rosary Major Seminary of the Archdiocese of Manizales and his theological studies at Mary Immaculate Major Seminary of the Archdiocese of Ibagué, consolidating a solid ecclesial formation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education (BSed) from the Catholic University in Colombia, with a specialization in Religious Sciences. He also holds a master’s degree in human Rights, Management, and Community Development (M.HR.CD), is a Specialist in Pedagogy, and has an Associate Degree in Religious Sciences (A.RS). He will soon receive a master’s degree in the Social Doctrine of the Church from the International Catholic University in West Virginia.
Father Bernardo is a priest of the Franciscan Community of Mercy, Pastor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Kearny, New Jersey, and Vicar of the Hispanic Apostolate, as well as a seminarian formator within the ANCC.
Read more about Fr. Bernardo and other members of our faculty and administration HERE.
Congratulations to ANCC seminarian Rudy (Tito) Calderon, who was admitted to the minor order of Lector at St Teresa of Calcutta ANCC in St Petersburg, Florida, on Pentecost Sunday, May 24, 2026. Rudy’s admission as a Lector follows the recommendation of the Formation Team and the approval of Most Rev. George R. Lucey, FCM, the ANCC Presiding Bishop. Rev. Fr. Victor Ray, FCM, parish pastor, officiated at the rite of induction. The minor order of Lector is the first formal step a seminarian takes in his or her formation towards ordination.
As a seminarian serving at St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Community, Rudy is involved in Hispanic ministry, faith formation, pastoral outreach, and community service. He sees his calling as accompanying people on their spiritual journey, sharing Christ’s love through compassionate service, and helping build a faith-filled community where all feel welcome, valued, and supported.
