Title: Renowned Spanish Priest and Scholar Juan Ignacio Vara Herrero Passes Away
Bilbao-bornSpanish priest and acclaimed educator, Juan Ignacio Vara Herrero, passed away on the first day of this year in Spain. Vara, who was affectionately referred to as ‘the abuelo’ (Grandpa) in his virtual memoirs, served for 40 dedicated years as a professor at the renowned Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil in Ecuador.
The Spanish clergyman, known for his unconventional and critical approach to faith, took up various teaching roles throughout his long tenure, covering subjects such as Literature, Philosophy, Theology, Ethics, Aesthetics, and Theatre Studies. His students and colleagues alike recalled him with fondness, addressing him as ‘father,’ reflective of the profound impact he made on their lives.
Vara’s journey began in 1963 when he arrived in Ecuador as part of a missionary group. Over time, he was invited by Eduardo Peña, then the university’s director, to teach Theology. In his final 12 years in the country, Vara expanded his work, visiting the Fundacion AEI from Monday to Sunday to provide spiritual assistance to critically ill patients.
After his return to Spain in 2007, he worked at the Hospital de Cruces, performing duties such as attending to patients, making rounds, and holding mass. In one instance, he humorously disclosed his injury via Facebook, mentioning his "forced silence" due to a serious arm injury. Later, he cheerfully updated his status in December to announce his return to writing, expressing his well wishes for the holidays to his friends.
Throughout his career, Vara published numerous academic texts, as well as poetry collections like "22 Poemas" and "La voz contra el muro." He also authored plays such as "Canciones de Babilonia" and "Casa de empeños," and compassionate musings in "A quemarropa" and "Al filo de la palabra." Additionally, he wrote three influential tomes on ‘Teología de bolsillo.’ In 2017, he published "Navidad no es un cuento, es un poema."
Vara’s unwavering commitment to education, belief, and servitude has left an indelible mark on countless lives. His passing has been mourned by the academic community and beyond, with tributes pouring in from those who had the privilege of learning from and knowing him.
Rest in peace, Father Juan Ignacio Vara Herrero. Your legacy lives on through the lives you’ve touched.
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