Diocesan Asian Pacific ministry marks heritage month with seminar

The Diocesan Asian & Pacific Islander Ministry held an Asian Pacific Islander Intergenerational Dialogue Seminar on May 17 at the Diocesan Pastoral Center. The event drew more than 170 participants representing a diverse range of cultures, including Chamorro, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indonesian, Korean, Tongan, and Vietnamese Catholic communities. The objectives for the day were to focus on psychological tension between generations and promote models of assertive communication based on Gospel values. The guest speakers were Dr. Ernelyn Navarro-Cheung, DM, LCSW, BCC and Eunice Park MTS, MAMC. The event concluded with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Alberto Rojas, concelebrated by seven priests of Asian descent. Songs and readings were sung and proclaimed in different languages. A notable aspect of the event was a photo booth where attendees had the opportunity to wear traditional dresses, showcasing the richness of various cultural heritages. Overall, this gathering highlighted the unity and diversity within the Diocese of San Bernardino.