By Natalie Romano

RIVERSIDE—Conventional wisdom says never talk about religion and politics but local Catholics did just that, following Bishop Gerald Barnes call for post-election prayer and fasting over the 18 days leading up to President Donald Trump’s inauguration. 

By David Okonkwo

 Black history month comes around every year. Most of us do the same thing we do every year. But this year we ask that we add something to our usual or start something new for the greater good. We are calling for a more “arms open wide” kind of relationship, extending our hands to our neighbors, to all peoples, immigrants, across culture even in the cloud of our unknowns about the “other.” 

The second of three articles advises on how to find a Spiritual Director

By Lenora Grimaud

 Spiritual Directors usually do not advertise. Unlike therapists, they don’t go into private practice and put out their shingle. 

 However, one can call the Diocese or their parish priest. The Diocese has a list of all certified Spiritual Directors in the Diocese. Some parishes have a list of Spiritual Directors in their parish. Retreat Centers also often have a list of Spiritual Directors they can refer.

 On January 12 at the 5 p.m. Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in San Bernardino, Father Dennis Nobleza explained to the people the coming journey of the Mercy Cross created last year for the San Bernardino Vicariate. The journey will be a reminder to all to continue to live Mercy and to practice the Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy. Father Christian Vera Cabrera, CORC, Parochial Vicar, blessed Henry Arriola and Melvin Mendez representing those receiving the cross from St. Bernardine Parish. 

By Mary Huber

LOS ANGELES—Once again, thousands of pilgrims attended the third annual OneLife LA event to support the dignity of all human life on January 21 at Exposition Park in Los Angeles. 

 The season of Lent is marked by many traditions among Catholics in the United States. Symbolized by its ubiquitous card board box, CRS Rice Bowl has been a tradition for generations of Catholics.