By David Okonkwo
The month of June holds a lot of historical firsts for black people, one of which is the first black Bishop in the United States, Bishop James Healy. He was ordained in Portland, Maine in 1875.
But the month of June also holds one of the most memorable moments in the lives of black people and the human race: the Juneteenth. It was on June 19, 1865 when the Union Soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas and read the Emancipation Proclamation letter that was delivered by President Lincoln more than two years earlier on January 1, 1863.
INDIO—A launch party and book signing was held for Father Luis Giudo’s book of reflections and poetry, Amar con Sabiduria es Saber Volar “Love with Wisdom is to Know how to Fly” April 26. The book launch was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Indio, where he serves as priest minister. 
SAN BERNARDINO—At age 12, Toan Pham knew he wanted to become a priest. 
PALM DESERT—With the founding bishop of the diocese and the religious sisters who built St. Bernardine Hospital among the evening’s honorees, the 14th Annual Bishop’s Dinner drew a record 994 guests on April 6.
CORONA—Like many youth his age Eddie Franco says he only attended confirmation classes because his parents made him. He did not know the meaning of the sacrament and was not interested in finding out. He fooled around in class and did not take it seriously. When his catechists took interest in his development, however, things began to change. 
SAN BERNARDINO—Highlighting Asian Pacific cultures and the different ways in which each culture approaches spirituality will be the focus of a seminar in May. Sharing Asian Pacific Gifts: Faith and Cultures will be held May 17 and 18 at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in San Bernardino.