SAN BERNARDINO—Bishop Gerald Barnes announced Sept. 18 the establishment of Blessed Oscar Romero Parish in the City of Eastvale, the first new parish in the Diocese since 2006.

 It is also among the first parishes ever to be named after Blessed Oscar Romero, the martyred Archbishop from El Salvador who was Beatified only four months ago. A parish can only be named after someone who has been Canonized or Beatified.

SAN BERNARDINO—A decidedly Catholic theme, punctuated by Bishop Gerald Barnes, ran through the group of Legacy of Exemplary Service honorees celebrated by the organization Libreria Del Pueblo at a ceremonial dinner on September 11.

RANCHO CUCAMONGA—Bishop Gerald R. Barnes celebrated the Coordinator of Ministries Formation Program (CMFP) Graduation Mass on Aug. 30, honoring 106 participants who completed one of the flagship programs of the Diocese. 

 Provided by the Ministry Formation Institute Department, the CMFP is a four year program, offered in both English and Spanish, which prepares laity to serve the Church as lay ecclesial ministers. 

By Sister Rebecca Zapien, S.A.C.

 On June 5 Nicolas G. Alatorre was received into the Father’s hands via Rancho Mirage. Nick was a quiet person, a holy person, always willing to serve to help any way he could. 

 His life had a rough beginning due to drug and alcohol abuse; he was even homeless for some time. However, his conversion seven years ago was so strong that Nick soared in his close communication with Our Lord. 

Msgr. Gerard Lopez, Vicar General, presents Deacon Don Burgett with a Papal Blessing from Pope Francis on the occasion of his 25th anniversary of his diaconate ordination.

By Deanna Bowers

GRAND TERRACE—On October 18, the feast of St. Luke, patron saint of physicians and surgeons, the Diocese of San Bernardino will celebrate a White Mass—to honor the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving others as healthcare providers.