A Next, Con Sentido Social reproduces an interview conducted by journalist Moisés González, director of the digital newspaper Despertar Nacional, with former Panamanian pitcher Mariano Rivera during a visit he made to the country that coincided with the celebration of the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games:
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.– Mariano Rivera's name occupies a unique place in baseball history: he was the first and so far only player unanimously elected to the Cooperstown Hall of Fame, an honor that crowned an extraordinary career with the New York Yankees, five World Series championships and the historic record of 652 saves in the Major Leagues.
However, for the legendary Panamanian former pitcher, great sporting achievements are not the ultimate measure of success. Rivera affirms that putting God first, serving others, preparing himself, and upholding values are the foundations that have guided his life both on and off the field.
DDuring an interview with Moisés González of Despertar Nacional, Rivera spoke about his faith, the special relationship he has built with the Dominican Republic, his commitment to the communities, and the projects he is developing in Samaná.
“For me, it is a privilege and a pleasure to be here in the Dominican Republic. I love this country and I have always been received with great affection. It is something very special to me.”
Faith, the foundation of his life
RRivera recalled with special emotion his historic visit to the Dominican Republic in 2007, when he preached the word of God alongside his wife before thousands of people in Lucerna, Santo Domingo East.
The activity was supported by the Tabernacle of Salvation and Praise Church, pastored by Pastor Cristina Gregorio and Pastor Bellanira Milagros Bello, which opened its doors to share a message of faith, hope and salvation with the community.
The Hall of Fame member recalled that the experience profoundly impacted his life, especially seeing children, youth, and adults draw closer to the Lord.
“That visit was special for me. Seeing children, young people, and adults accept the Lord was very important. We continue to do it because we understand that leading people to God's path is the greatest mission we can accomplish. Without God, it is impossible, as the Word says,” he stated.
ARecalling that meeting, Rivera sent a warm greeting to pastors Cristina Gregorio and Bellanira Milagros Bello, of the Tabernacle of Salvation and Praise Church, thanking them for the affection received during that visit and reaffirming the spiritual bond and friendship he maintains with the congregation.
A message to young people: God first
UOne of Rivera's main messages during the conversation was directed at young Dominicans who dream of reaching professional baseball. The former Yankees pitcher advised them not to abandon their studies while developing their sports careers and, above all, to strengthen their relationship with God.
“My advice to all young people is to never neglect their studies while playing baseball. Prepare yourselves, because education will always be a valuable tool for life. But above all, seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; then education, and then sports,” he stated.
Rivera recalled that he too dreamed of reaching the Major Leagues and attributed the opportunities he found during his career to God.
“LDreams are meant to be fulfilled. I dreamed of reaching the Major Leagues, and God opened the doors. If you work with discipline, passion, and put God first, you too can achieve your goals,” he said.
For Rivera, athletic talent must be accompanied by education, discipline, principles, and training that allows young people to prepare for both the triumphs and the challenges they will encounter off the field.
Samaná: faith, service and community commitment
That vision of service is also present in the social and environmental projects that Rivera promotes in the Dominican Republic.
SHe referred especially to his commitment to Samaná, a province that, he explained, he deeply appreciates and where he works on initiatives aimed at contributing to environmental protection and improving the quality of life of the communities.
“Samaná is a place I deeply cherish. We want to make investments that will clean up this beautiful area of the Dominican Republic, eliminate pollution problems, and contribute to the well-being of the community. For us, this isn't just a business; it's a privilege to serve the people and protect such a valuable place,” he stated.
Rivera highlighted initiatives such as Nordeste Sostenible, aimed at modernizing solid waste management, protecting Samaná Bay, and advancing the progressive elimination of open-air dumps that have affected the region for years.
The project also seeks to contribute to tourism development, public health and the well-being of the communities of Samaná and María Trinidad Sánchez.
“"AND”I am convinced that caring for God’s creation is also a form of service. We want Samaná to continue growing, but sustainably, preserving its natural beauty and improving the quality of life for its people. That is our commitment,” he said.
The former player believes that the growth of tourism in Samaná must be accompanied by actions that protect its natural resources and generate well-being for its inhabitants.
Congratulates the Dominican Republic on the Central American and Caribbean Games
AReferring to the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games, Rivera congratulated the Dominican Republic for its efforts in organizing and hosting the regional event. He stated that these types of sporting events contribute to the integration of nations and allow the country to showcase itself to the international community.
The Cooperstown immortal also sent a message to the athletes who participated in the competition and urged them to proudly represent their respective nations.
“Enjoy the competition and give your best for your nation. Sport has the power to unite our people and inspire new generations. The important thing is to compete with passion and proudly represent your country's flag,” he said.
In his closing message, Rivera again emphasized the importance of putting God at the center of life and quoted Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
The five-time World Series champion and all-time saves leader in Major League Baseball thus reiterated a message that has marked his testimony: faith in God, education, discipline and service must accompany young people in building their dreams.
