Mexican priest Father Carlos Alberto Gutiérrez has been elected as the new director general of the Legionaries of Christ for the term spanning 2026 to 2032. His election occurred during the congregation’s general chapter, which commenced on January 20, 2026, in Rome. He succeeds Father John Connor, who served prior to him.
Born in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, Father Gutiérrez, aged 51, has been a member of the Legionaries of Christ since 1999 and was ordained a priest in 2009. His extensive pastoral experience includes roles in countries such as Chile, Italy, Colombia, Venezuela, and Mexico. Most recently, he held the position of territorial director for the northern region of Mexico.
Father Gutiérrez’s academic credentials are noteworthy. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and theology from the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum and a degree in industrial and systems engineering from the Monterrey Institute of Technology. Additionally, he obtained a master’s degree in psychology from Divine Mercy University in Virginia.
Commitment to Renewal and Service
In a statement released by the congregation, it was emphasized that Father Gutiérrez’s mission involves “continuing the path of renewal” within the Legionaries of Christ, a journey that has been ongoing under the Church’s guidance. The statement further highlighted the new administration’s commitment to fostering an institutional culture characterized by transparency, care, and service to all, along with a focus on communion within the Church.
The general chapter, consisting of 60 priests from 13 countries, will also address the election of general councilors and a general administrator. Discussions will revolve around various aspects of the life and mission of the Legion of Christ, underscoring the importance of collaborative governance.
A Legacy of Reform
Founded in 1941, the Legionaries of Christ is a religious congregation of pontifical right that has faced significant challenges, particularly concerning the legacy of its founder, Marcial Maciel, who was implicated in numerous cases of sexual abuse and power misuse. The congregation has since embarked on a profound process of renewal and reform, culminating in the definitive approval of new statutes for the Regnum Christi Federation in February 2025. This restructuring defines it as a “spiritual family and apostolic body” comprising various vocations, including Legionaries of Christ, consecrated laymen, consecrated women, and lay members.
Simultaneously, the general assembly of the consecrated women of Regnum Christi is taking place in Rome, where Nancy Nohrden has been reelected as director general. The assembly for consecrated laymen is also underway, with a new leader expected to be elected shortly.
On January 28, 2026, Pope Leo XIV met with participants of these gatherings, encouraging them to clarify their identities. He expressed confidence that a deeper understanding of their vocations would empower them to proclaim the Gospel more effectively.
Father Gutiérrez’s election marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of the Legionaries of Christ, as the organization seeks to navigate the complexities of its past while fostering a future defined by integrity and outreach.
