By Elena Macias
On October 22 Bishop Alberto Rojas recognized healthcare professionals at the annual Diocesan White Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral in San Bernardino.
“We have come together in this beautiful space, a sacred space, where we share the Lord Jesus in the Sacrament of the Eucharist. As we come together, we come in thanksgiving, we come with joy in this case, to recognize the beautiful service of a medical group of people, doctors and nurses, in this beautiful field of health,” Bishop Alberto Rojas said.
During the White Mass, the Diocese awarded several healthcare professionals for their extraordinary work and services within and outside the Diocese of San Bernardino.
“I think what moves us all to do things like this is the presence of the Holy Spirit,” Bishop Rojas said. “We are inspired to be good stewards of God’s creation and to have that respect for one another, that concern for one another,” Bishop Rojas said.
This year’s awardees are:
Dr. Ajay Moganti received the St. Luke Award, which is for any doctor/physician who has distinguished himself/herself professionally in a way that reflects the Catholic values and moral ethics.
Chaplain David Berg received the St. Damien Molokai Award, which is for any Chaplain who has distinguished himself in providing compassionate and dedicated spiritual care to the sick and dying.
Arnel Recio received the Bishop Award, which is for any healthcare provider, other than a physician or nurse, who has distinguished himself/herself by providing healthcare services in a manner that promotes the mission of the Diocese, “so that people’s lives are filled with hope.”
Robert Quimby received the St. Teresa of Calcutta Award, which is given to a person who has distinguished himself or herself by providing healthcare services to the poor, the homeless, disadvantaged or marginalized people.
Elena Macias is the Managing Editor of the Inland Catholic BYTE.