By Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes

 The presidential election that is now less than two months away is being described in the most dramatic of terms. One candidate calls it “a moment of reckoning,” the other “a moment of crisis.”

By Bishop Gerald R. Barnes

 Beginning with the moment he called Peter and Andrew to follow him in ministry, the Lord Jesus did not hesitate to ask those he encountered to embark on a new path in their life. Those many moments throughout the scriptures, from Peter to Zacchaeus to the woman at the well to Paul, inspire us to be open to the transformation that Jesus offers us in our own lives.

 “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

By Bishop Gerald Barnes

 Eight months ago our Diocese was traumatized by the mass shooting that took place at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, claiming 14 lives and forever altering the course of so many others left behind. 

By Most Reverend Gerald R Barnes

 “It’s complicated.”

 This is a deflective phrase we sometimes use in conversation when we are asked about something we find painful or embarrassing.

 The following is an excerpt from Bishop Gerald Barnes’ address at the Combined Vicariate Meeting on February 11 at St. Francis Xavier Cabrini Parish, Yucaipa.

By Most Reverend Gerald Barnes

 And so Pope Frances gives us the Year of Mercy, a year to reflect on that part of our identity. A year to look at how we ourselves, in the times of problems and chaos, have been touched by God’s Mercy. A year to show gratitude for all that God has given us, especially during the difficult times in our lives. We do that, personally, but we also do that as a parish, as a school, as a diocese. We are called to reflect on how we as a community have shown God’s Mercy to our sisters and our brothers. How do we do that in our service and in our ministry to others?