SAN BERNARDINO—Lay ministers in the fields of catechetics, administrative support and social outreach were recognized on May 18 with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a layperson in the Church by the Vatican.

 It was the third year in a row after a lengthy break that the Diocesan Awards Ceremony included recipients of the Papal Award.

SAN BERNARDINO—With Catholic schools in the United States seemingly at a crossroads, Sam Torres isn’t afraid to say that it’s time to break the traditional mold in order to revitalize and grow the system in the Diocese of San Bernardino.

MURRIETA—Catholics in the Temecula Valley who were brought up in the Anglican tradition have become part of a Roman Catholic community under the jurisdiction of a non-territorial diocese created specifically for those who share that background.

 As we continue our walk of Mercy, we are reminded money must serve, not rule! The Pope asks us all to help, respect, and promote mercy: “Not to share one’s wealth with others is to steal from them and to take away their livelihood. “It is not our own goods which we hold . . .”

By Mary Huber

 Senate Bill 320 is a highly controversial and one-sided bill that would require public colleges and universities in California to provide abortion-inducing medication. 

By Marge Bitetti

SAN BERNARDINO—In 1998 Bishop Gerald Barnes had the wisdom to establish the Ministry Formation Institute (MFI) with the goal of providing the Diocese with educated and trained leaders for the numerous ministries in the region.