SACRAMENTO—Catholic Advocacy Day had an added element of urgency this year as the California Legislature is considering a bill that would legalize doctor-prescribed suicide.

INDIAN WELLS—Gratitude, grace and some sentimentality.

 These characterized the 16th Annual Bishop’s Dinner, which had a special focus on honoring those in consecrated life, in reflection of the current Papal Year.

Father Romeo Seleccion, M.S., E.V. presided over the installation Mass of Father Canice Nwizu at Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Adelanto on April 12.  Fr. Nwizu has been assigned to the parish for three years. He was assigned to the parish in November, after Father Mario Ramirez, MSC, the parish’s previous pastor, began his ministerial sabbatical.

By Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes

 In his mind a man plans his course, but the Lord directs his steps (Proverbs 16:9)

 The ideal that individuals should be free to choose their own opinions and actions is deeply ingrained in us, particularly in our American culture.

By Hilda Cruz

 Hilda Cruz chronicles a joyful journey to Rome to watch her son and his family commissioned for missionary work by Pope Francis.

ROME—March 6th was a memorable day for 250 families of the Neocatechumenal Way as they received a special blessing during an audience with Pope Francis in Paul VI Hall in the Vatican. This event was also very special to me as I personally witnessed my oldest son and his family receive this special blessing. The meeting was a commissioning, or sending forth, of these families who depart as missionaries to live in various parts of the world in response to the mandate of Jesus to announce the Gospel in all parts of the world. 

 Local families have the opportunity to see Pope Francis on his first visit to the United States and participate in the World Meeting of Families (WMOF) in Philadelphia this September. 

  The Office of Catechetical Ministry and the Office of Charismatic Renewal of the Diocese are organizing a pilgrimage to the event.