NPH Founder recognized for a life of love, justice, and service
With great joy and profound reverence, NPH is proud to announce that the Bishop of Cuernavaca has officially opened the canonization process for our beloved founder, Father William Wasson.
This extraordinary news comes as a blessing to the entire NPH family and to thousands of lives touched by Fr. Wasson’s legacy. A humble priest, tireless advocate, and spiritual father to generations of vulnerable children, Fr. Wasson’s life of compassion and faith now takes its first steps toward sainthood in the Catholic Church.
A Legacy of Love Across Latin America
Fr. Wasson founded Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos in 1954 in Cuernavaca, Mexico. What began as a simple act of mercy—sheltering one child accused of theft—grew into a life-changing mission now present in nine countries across Latin America and the Caribbean. Through his vision, thousands of children found not only food, shelter, and education, but the unwavering love of a family.
Fr. Wasson was more than a founder. He was a father figure who sat and listened to children’s stories, shared meals with them, and believed in their potential. For many who grew up in NPH, he was a source of strength, healing, and hope. His mission was not merely institutional; it was deeply personal and spiritual.
Even today, Hermanos Mayores (older brothers and sisters) and staff who knew him continue to carry his teachings forward. His legacy is alive in every NPH home, in the faith of our supporters, and in the hearts of every child we serve.
With Gratitude and Unity
This milestone has been made possible through the collaboration between the Diocese of Cuernavaca, the Diocese of Phoenix, and NPH USA, whose ongoing efforts and support were instrumental in initiating this sacred process.
The announcement will be formally shared during a special mass on Sunday, April 13 at noon in Cuernavaca, where children, youth, staff, and the local community will come together to honor this moment of sacred significance.
An Easter Celebration of New Life
How fitting that this announcement comes during Easter, the season of resurrection and hope. As we celebrate the Risen Christ, we also celebrate the life of a man who brought resurrection to so many — not through miracles, but through everyday acts of compassion, faith, and service.
We ask the entire NPH community to keep this process in their prayers, and to continue living out the mission Fr. Wasson began: one of justice, love, and dignity for every child.
Peace and blessings.
“I don’t want a child to feel that he is loved because he is good. I want him to feel that he is good because he is loved.”
— Fr. William B. Wasson