News - December 2024

Ordained at age 25 for the Diocese of San Jose, Father Steve Kim has been busy ever since. He became principal of Saint Joseph Notre Dame (SJND) in 2023, tasked with focusing on Catholic identity and sustainability.

The Diocese of Oakland bid farewell to native son and second bishop, Bishop John Stephen Cummins on Dec. 20 and 21 at the Cathedral of Christ the Light.

Father Osuna coordinated and composed Bishop Cummins’ funeral services as a Christmas gift to the faithful of the Oakland Diocese. He crafted them as a serenade in word and song, reflecting his vision of life and death, faith and ministry.

A 40,000 pound act of mercy for Contra Costa County residents. They may not have been in shiny armor, but the Knights of Columbus Council #4060 from St. Isidore Parish in Danville and their pastor, Father Matthew Murray, made Christmas a little brighter and merrier for 500 families this year, by delivering more than 40,000 pounds of food.

Catholic Charities East Bay (Catholic Charities) has announced that the Board of Directors has selected former San Francisco Giants executive Mario Alioto as the new Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities. He succeeds Interim CEO and Chairman of the Board Jim Fiedler. Read the full announcement through the link.

The Fr. John C. Murphy Council of the Knights of Columbus donated $20,000 to local charities and hosted a free breakfast Sunday at St Raymond's Moran Hall in Dublin. Santa was on hand as ten different East Bay charitable organizations received $2,000 awards. The annual breakfast finishes up the local Knights' yearly fund raising effort and gives the community a delicious breakfast and some one-on-one time with Santa. Read more through the link.

Are you being called? A new diaconate class is forming.

As Catholics wondering how to keep younger generations engaged in the life of the Church, St. John Vianney in Walnut Creek has found an answer: start them early with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS).

On Dec. 7, 2024, thousands of people joining Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ in pilgrimage to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe. Beginning at St. Louis Bertrand Parish, the group processed to the Cathedral of Christ the Light for Mass. Mariachi groups serenaded the pilgrims, some of whom wore regalia and costumes. Indigenous dances in tribute to Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe preceded Mass celebrated by Bishop Barber and clergy of the diocese. Photos by Justin Cardona.

In addition to the candles on the Advent wreath this year, the Cathedral of Christ the Light is enkindling a new tradition. Energy efficient LED lights capable of being changed to almost any color have been installed to illuminate the exterior of the cathedral.