Born in Valencia, Spain, in 1945, Manuel Cortés Soriano entered the novitiate of the Society of Mary in 1961. On Sept. 12, 1962, he professed his first vows in Elorrio. Following several years of study, and some time teaching, he entered the Marist Seminary in 1970 and was ordained on March 24, 1974, in Fribourg, Switzerland.  Throughout his more than 40 years as a Marist, Fr. Manuel has served as local community superior, school chaplain, Master of Novices and parish priest.

Fr. Manuel will serve a second term of six years.  He, along with three General Counselors who are soon to be elected, will serve as the leadership team of approximately 1200 members of the Society of Mary.  

The Chapter is expected to continue until July 22nd.  During this time, directions and priorities for both the new General Council, as well as the Society as a whole, will be discussed and determined.