Diocese hosts national Hispanic priests gathering, Bishop Barnes honored

Bishop Emeritus Gerald Barnes received the Good Shepherd Award from the National Association of Hispanic Priests during the 34th Annual Conference held on Sept. 30 through Oct. 3 in Ontario. In his acceptance remarks Bishop Barnes emphasized the key role that Hispanic priests play in meeting the sacramental and pastoral needs of today’s U.S. Church. “I am honored and humbled that you would recognize me because this award belongs to all of us,” he said. “We are here for the people of God.” The Hispanic priests were joined by several other Hispanic bishops, including Bishop Alberto Rojas, Bishop Oscar Cantu of San Jose, Bishop Ramon Bejarano of San Diego and Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles.