“Gratitude is the first word that comes to mind,” said Theresa Montminy, Director of Mission Advancement and chief coordinator of the dinner. “The people of the Diocese have again shown great generosity, and it will bear fruit in the formation of the young men who will one day serve our local church as priests.”
The Bishop’s Dinner is also the occasion for Bishop Barnes to recognize those who live out his Episcopal Motto, “Love is the total giving of oneself,” with the Amar Es Entregarse Award. This year’s honoress were Naida Castro, the Brothers of St. John of God, Dr. Carlos Fayard and the Sisters of the Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart.
Bishop Barnes praised the Sisters for their work of transformation at their Big Bear retreat, particularly in support of families. He honored Dr. Fayard for his collaboration with the Diocese in working with priests. The Brothers of St. John of God were lauded by the Bishop for the inspiration they provide to those struggling with addiction at their High Desert treatment facility. Castro was honored for her work of advocacy for global solidarity and just living conditions for Catholics around the world.
“If there is an event or program in the Diocese that looks at the global church and how we in the Diocese of San Bernardino can impact it through our actions, chances are Naida Castro is involved,” Bishop Barnes said.
The Dinner is designed for friends to gather annually and to recognize the extraordinary role they have in fulfilling the mission of the Church in the Diocese of San Bernardino. It is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the many leaders in Diocesan communities, past and present. It brings people together from all corners of the Diocese to support Bishop Barnes, who gives himself in wholehearted service, his priestly and Episcopal vocation while promoting seminarian formation.
The 16th Annual Bishop’s Dinner will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at the Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells.