Dear Brothers and Sisters, I believe Mary is with us as we feel frustration, anger, pain, and uncertainty during these days of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic and increasing civil strife as we struggle with the scourge of racism and seemingly ever-increasing polarization. Mary understands and will intercede for us if we ask her. During the month of September we celebrate two feasts of Mary: September 8: The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary; and September 15: Our Lady of Sorrows. . . Click on the image to read the complete message and link to the prayers.

Dear Brothers and Sisters, This month I direct my reflection to the parents of the 35 parishes within our Diocese of Stockton. As Bishop, I am blessed to serve you, our Catholic families, from Lodi to Newman; from Mammoth Lakes to Tracy, and all the communities within the 10,000 square miles of our Diocese of Stockton. The Catholic Church has contributed to the rich history of this region of California. It has blazed trails providing and fostering the Christian faith in the Northern San Joaquin Valley. It has upheld and provided Catholic school education and faith formation for countless families. The Church has also provided quality hospital and medical care, as well as outreach ministries such as Catholic Charities. Our outreach ministries have provided many life sustaining services to countless families. This has, and continues to be, the “mission call” of our Diocese. . . Click on the image to read the complete message.