The Maryknoll Monarch Initiative (MMI) began in 2025 as a shared vision between the Maryknoll Sisters and the Maryknoll Lay Missioners. Inspired by the Sisters’ Mission Institute, the founders imagined a new educational and training initiative on the Border in El Paso where each community had a ministry presence. Drawing on the geography, history, and politics of the border, MMI focuses on Care for the Earth, Human Migration, and Nonviolence. The initiative is rooted in Maryknoll’s Catholic faith, but aims to learn from and welcome people of all faiths.

The co-coordinators of the programs are Sr. Esperanza Principio, MM and Duncan Hilton. Before coming to El Paso late last year, Sister Esperanza was at Maryknoll Mission Institute in New York as its Associate Director.   Her last mission country was Peru where she served for eleven years in health, education, environmental justice and interfaith / intercultural programs for children. Duncan is originally from New England where he worked for fifteen year as a community organizer, trainer, non-profit leader, and Episcopal priest before moving to El Paso with his wife and kids to focus on ministry to migrants.