Retired priests gather at Pastoral Center for annual reflection

In a yearly tradition, retired diocesan priests came to the Pastoral Center on May 13 for a time of reflection, Mass and a shared meal. They were joined by Bishop Alberto Rojas, Bishop Emeritus Gerald Barnes, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Rutilio del Riego, Monsignor Gerard Lopez, Vicar General, Father Erik Esparaza, diocesan Director of Priest Personnel and Sister Mary Frances Coleman, R.S.M., diocesan Director of Consecrated Life. The gathering began with a dialogue between the retired priests and Bishop Rojas, where they were able to share their joys, gratitude, concerns and questions. They gathered for Mass next and ended their time together with a luncheon. There are currently 26 retired diocesan priests. The faithful of the diocese have an opportunity to show their gratitude for the many decades of priestly serviced offered by these men by contributing to a special collection that is taken every Father’s Day Weekend (or another weekend in June chosen by the parish) that helps to cover their living expenses in their final years.