05/01/2026
By Regina Flores
On April 18, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Riverside gathered for a truly memorable evening as it celebrated “Paving the Way, Allow Us to Serve You,” a fundraising dinner for the Parking Lot Improvement Project. This year’s event marked the first time Bishop Alberto Rojas personally participated in a fundraiser of this kind, serving as waiter of our community with humility, warmth, and genuine joy. His presence set a beautiful tone of servant leadership that inspired everyone in the room.
Alongside Bishop Rojas, Father Ben Alforque, pastor, Father Juan Pablo Romero, Father Peter Nguyen, Deacon Bernie Henandez, and Deacon Nam Bui offered their time and hearts as hosts and servers-waiters turning the evening into a living expression of fellowship and shared mission. Their joyful service reminded all those present of what it means to build not just structures, but community.
Through the kindness and generosity of parishioners, friends, and supporters, the community raised significant funds that bring it closer to improving the parish grounds. Every donation, every smile, and every moment of connection helped pave the way not just with concrete, but with solidarity, faith and love.
Regina Flores is a Youth Minister at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Riverside.