Venerable Octavio Ortiz Arrieta

photograph of Venerable Octavio Ortiz Arrieta, date, location and photographer unknown Profile

Began studying carpentry in a Salesian school in December 1893 at age 14. Joined the Salesians in 1900 in Callao, the Order‘s first Peruvian member, making his perpetual vows in 1902. Assigned to found a new vocational school in Piura, Peru in 1906. Ordained a priest on 27 January 1907. Rector of Salesian houses in Cuzco and Callao. Chosen bishop of Chachapoyas, Peru on 21 November 1921; it took him a month of travel from Lima to reach his see. Known for his closeness to clergy and lay people of his diocese. He organized missions and spiritual retreats for his flock, taught catechism, founded a diocesan newspaper, and revitalized the faith in the region. He declined an appointment as archbishop of Lima, Peru, preferring to stay with people of his diocese.