Lenten Reflections 2026: The Rev. Justin Colón
Guided by Hope, Colón Leads Prep Students Through Spiritual Discovery
By Wendy R. Cromwell
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Rev. Justin Colón, chaplain at Robinson School in San Juan, a missionary-founded girls’ school that has grown into an international, English-speaking, co-ed prep school, says his work with students is grounded in a steady sense of hope shaped by his faith. He holds closely to the belief that “God is the one who will bring to completion the work that he has started,” a conviction that sustains him in campus ministry.
Ordained in 2006 after graduating from the Evangelical Seminary of Puerto Rico, Colón has been Robinson’s chaplain for four years. During that time, he has found joy in building relationships and creating moments of spiritual growth in everyday school life. “I enjoy playing worship songs and hymns with my students,” he said, adding that sharing devotions and watching students grow in their faith brings him deep joy, as do simple moments like playing board games during lunch.
Working on a diverse campus, Colón said he values the opportunity to connect with students from a wide range of backgrounds. “I enjoy the challenge of sharing the Christian faith with students who were not brought up in a Christian environment,” he said. Witnessing students respond to the message of the Gospel, he added, often leaves them — and him — “in awe at the profound love of God.”
Looking ahead, Colón acknowledged that the year brings both excitement and strain. “Being spread too thin” remains a challenge, he said, as he works to balance new initiatives with being fully present for the school community. Still, he said he is energized by upcoming efforts to create new experiences that help students grow in their faith.
For church members following his work, Colón said he hopes they understand how spiritually curious today’s youth have become. “Many youth today recognize the need to attend to their spiritual lives,” he said. “They are searching for answers, and we are called to walk alongside them in their faith journey.”
Colón added that he approaches his ministry with humility. “I serve by the grace of God,” he said, noting that he is “always in need of the prayers of the saints.”
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