SAN BERNARDINO—A proposed shelter and transitional facility for homeless men in San Bernardino that appeared to be a longshot two years ago broke ground on January 9.

By Sister Maria Jennifer Nguyen, L.H.C.

 I have been in the United States for almost 40 years and lived in many different states. The first time I encountered various Asians and non-Asian Pacific Islanders was when I was a teenager in an English as Second Language (ESL) class.

By Marge Bitetti

SAN BERNARDINO—For Gloria Austin, her involvement in the Diocesan Commission that provides outreach to Families of Gay and Lesbian Catholics was personal. 

GRAND TERRACE—The gathering in Celebration of Consecrated Life in the Diocese of San Bernardino was held Jan. 27 at Christ the Redeemer Church in Grand Terrace during the 10 AM Mass celebrated by Bishop Gerald Barnes.

LOS ANGELES—Hundreds of faithful Catholics from the Diocese of San Bernardino walked downtown Los Angeles and raised their voices in support of Life at the 2019 OneLife LA on January 20.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

   I offer you my most heartfelt and prayerful blessings as we celebrate the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us carry in our hearts the incomparable joy that was felt in our world when the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us. Let us allow the Spirit of the Season to help us strengthen our bonds with family, friends and community members, and bring us to reconciliation with those from whom we are estranged. Let us take our rest from the busyness of our schedules, leaving room to contemplate the true meaning of gift, and of Christmas. And let us remember, too, the humble circumstances though which our Lord came into this world. How does this speak to us in how we view the meek and mild in our midst, and how we treat them?

   May God bless you and your family in this Holy Season and fill your life with hope. God is with us! Emmanuel.

Bishop Gerald R. Barnes