Bishop Barnes is a longstanding advocate for Hispanic Ministry and for empowering Latino leadership in Church and society. He has served as Chair of the USCCB committees on Hispanic Affairs and Migration.
“I am thrilled the Board chose to honor Bishop Barnes this year!” said Dr. Arturo Chavez, MACC President, “He has been a mentor and role model to me and so many other leaders over the years. In the words of Pope Francis, he is truly a shepherd who smells like the sheep! I have been privileged to see Bishop Barnes in action… listening, encouraging, and challenging the diverse leaders of his flock who gather regularly of his signature town hall meetings. They are often surprised he remembers their names! More importantly, he remembers their concerns and takes appropriate pastoral action.” Bishop Barnes’ Episcopal Crest is, “Amar es Entregarse: To love is to give of oneself completely!”
MACC initiated the San Juan Diego award in 2010 as a way of honoring and thanking Bishops for promoting Hispanic Ministry on a national level. The Catholic Church in the U.S. continues to thrive in large part due to a rapidly growing Hispanic population. Presently, 60% of all Catholics in the U.S. under the age of 18 are Hispanic, demonstrating that the future of the Church will be transformed by Hispanic Catholics. This robust and growing community offers the Church many gifts and opportunities on multiple levels.