The September/October issue of Catholic Herald is now available online here: SAC0926 | Catholic Magazines. This issue focuses on veterans, their faith amid conflict and respect life issues.

In this issue, Bishop Soto beautifully calls to mind the words of the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address and the depth they carry in light of the sacrifices made by men and women in the military. Father Michael Vaughan shares his own experience in the Gulf War which led to his conversion, the priesthood and his new role as chaplain for the Army National Guard.

On Saturday, August 1, over 140 lay ministry leaders from across the Diocese celebrated the completion of courses in Catechesis and Pastoral Accompaniment.

Auxiliary Bishop Rey Bersabal presided at the Mass, assisted by Deacon Arturo Arroyo and Deacon Jason Solano. In his homily, Bishop Rey praised the lay leaders for living out the spirit of synodality. Echoing his own call while addressing the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) in Jakarta, Bishop Rey challenged them to be true "bridges and bridge-builders" in their communities.

With faith in the promise of the Resurrection, the Diocese of Sacramento mourns the passing of Deacon Jaime Garcia, who entered eternal life on July 20, 2026, at the age of 80.

Deacon Jaime was ordained to the Permanent Diaconate in 2003 for the Diocese of Oakland, where he began his ministry before later serving the Diocese of Sacramento for more than 19 years. Through his ministry of Word, charity, and service, he faithfully proclaimed the Gospel and accompanied the People of God with generosity and devotion.

Please join us in praying for the eternal repose of Deacon Jaime's soul and for the consolation of his wife, Barbara, his family, friends, and brother deacons.