SAN BERNARDINO—A decidedly Catholic theme, punctuated by Bishop Gerald Barnes, ran through the group of Legacy of Exemplary Service honorees celebrated by the organization Libreria Del Pueblo at a ceremonial dinner on September 11.

RANCHO CUCAMONGA—Bishop Gerald R. Barnes celebrated the Coordinator of Ministries Formation Program (CMFP) Graduation Mass on Aug. 30, honoring 106 participants who completed one of the flagship programs of the Diocese. 

 Provided by the Ministry Formation Institute Department, the CMFP is a four year program, offered in both English and Spanish, which prepares laity to serve the Church as lay ecclesial ministers. 

By Sister Rebecca Zapien, S.A.C.

 On June 5 Nicolas G. Alatorre was received into the Father’s hands via Rancho Mirage. Nick was a quiet person, a holy person, always willing to serve to help any way he could. 

 His life had a rough beginning due to drug and alcohol abuse; he was even homeless for some time. However, his conversion seven years ago was so strong that Nick soared in his close communication with Our Lord. 

Msgr. Gerard Lopez, Vicar General, presents Deacon Don Burgett with a Papal Blessing from Pope Francis on the occasion of his 25th anniversary of his diaconate ordination.

By Deanna Bowers

GRAND TERRACE—On October 18, the feast of St. Luke, patron saint of physicians and surgeons, the Diocese of San Bernardino will celebrate a White Mass—to honor the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving others as healthcare providers. 

By Elise Harris

VATICAN CITY—In a reformed marriage annulment process, Pope Francis has made significant changes, giving more of a role to the local bishop, dropping automatic appeals, and declaring the process free of charge.

 Announced Sept. 8, the new process is aimed at streamlining the system for granting annulments out of concern “for the salvation of souls” while affirming the longstanding Catholic teaching on marriage indissolubility.