The call of Pope Francis for Catholic ministers to “go out to the margins” has always resonated with Armando García.

 In fact, the call was so strong in him that when he had finished his college education it led him on a seven-year journey to pursue theological studies in Mexico, where he encountered the poor and marginalized. García has since served in positions of diocesan catechetical, pastoral and youth ministry leadership on the East Coast and more recently in the Bay Area.

By Father David Andel, JV

 In Matthew 23:37, Jesus laments over Jerusalem, “How many times I yearned to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her young under her wings, but you were unwilling!” The image is one of children straying away and Mom going out to gather them in. When one comes back home another leaves, and Mom goes out again to bring that one back. It’s a good image of God, our Father, always trying to reconcile His children with Himself and with one another, doing all He can to keep the family together.

 The heroic response of police and first responders to the Dec. 2 terrorist attack at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino will receive a special tribute at the 17th Annual Bishop’s Dinner this year on April 2nd.

By Natalie Romano

 February... the traditional month of love and romance. Valentine’s Day cards and candy fill store shelves everywhere. Yet the Catholic calendar highlights devotion of another sort. With the arrival of Ash Wednesday our focus turns to fasting, prayer and almsgiving.

 The Diocesan Office of Restorative Justice has announced Lenten Memorial Masses for the victims and survivors, families and all those who have lost a loved one to murder or suicide. Families are welcome to bring a small framed photo of their loved one.

 Three prominent religious leaders will come together Tuesday evening, February 16 for an inter-religious dialogue on the care of the environment. Rabbi Michael Lotker, Dr. Imad Bayoun and Father Benedict Nwachukwu, V.F. are scheduled to speak at the event, “The Care for our Common Home.” They will respond to Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment which was released last summer.