Like many Diocesan liturgies this year, the annual Consecrated Life Mass had a different look as a result of following health and safety precautions for COVID-19.
The Consecrated Life Mass was celebrated in the studio of Wordnet Productions, a San Bernardino-based Catholic media ministry, and livestreamed on YouTube. It was the first time Bishop Alberto Rojas served as chief celebrant of the Mass. He was joined in the studio by Sister Mary Frances Coleman, RSM, Director of the Diocesan Office of Consecrated Life, and a handful of Wordnet staff.
In his homily, Bishop Rojas talked about the personal impact religious sisters have had on his life.
“All my teachers were religious Sisters and they taught me about God’s love,” he said. “The best Catholic schools in my hometown were managed by religious Sisters . . . As these sisters have made a difference in my life, I am sure many of you can share a similar story. All of you Sisters and Brothers are bearers of light.”
At the Consecrated Life Mass three religious women were honored on the occasion of their 60th Jubilee. They were Sister Sara Kane, CSJ, former Chancellor of the Diocese; Maria Elena Minjarez, odn; and Elvira Rios, odn.
In addition to honoring the Jubilarians, Sr. Mary Frances memorialized the religious women and men who were called to their eternal rest in 2020. She also guided the 200 religious men and women viewing the livestream to renew their vows.
Bishop Rojas once again brought his musical talents to the Mass, performing the song “El Silencio Está Cantando-Silence is Singing,” and dedicating it to the consecrated women and men of the Diocese.