Born on March 24, 1920, in Cotija, Michoacán, Mexico, Maciel was ordained as a priest in 1944. His charisma and persuasive abilities quickly earned him recognition within the Catholic Church, and he went on to establish the Legion of Christ, a congregation aimed at promoting spiritual growth and education. However, behind the façade of piety and devotion, Maciel was leading a life marked by duplicity and sin.