Dear Committee Members,
It was a privilege to gather with you on January 16. As we navigate the “uncharted territory” ahead of our community, our shared resolve is more critical than ever. Per our discussion, I am providing this formal summary of our meeting to ensure we move forward with a singular vision.
Administrative Action: Voting Results The committee held a formal vote regarding the review process for shared materials. It was resolved that members may comment on all artwork, articles, and reports posted for response. To maintain our operational tempo, any reservations or critiques must be submitted within 24 hours of the initial posting.
Jurisdictional & Resource Updates • Bishop Greer (Jurisdiction Resources & Liturgy): Bishop Greer announced the official relaunch of “Convergent Streams,” aligning our jurisdictional resources with our humanitarian priorities. Furthermore, he detailed plans for the upcoming Lenten Liturgy, “Standing With Immigrants.” This liturgy is designed as a profound act of public witness, focusing on the Stations of the Cross viewed through the lens of the migrant journey. It aims to provide spiritual sustenance while signaling our unwavering presence to the broader community.
• Bishop-Elect Castro (Latin American Jurisdiction): Bishop-Elect Castro reported on the increasing instability in Venezuela, Colombia, and Argentina, noting the direct impact on migration patterns. He also addressed the political implications of the Nobel Peace Prize being awarded to President Trump, urging the committee to remain vigilant in our messaging.
Report from Mr. Tony Herrera. Mr. Herrera’s report focused extensively on the integration of local parishes with the Office of Faith, Justice, and Humanitarian Efforts:
• Direct Engagement: Creating a direct pipeline between individual parishes and this Office to ensure local needs are reported in real time.
• Parish Responsibility: Empowering parishes as the primary sites for grassroots organizing and resource distribution.
• Collaborative Infrastructure: Utilizing the Office as a clearinghouse for best practices and legal guidance to support local leadership.
Closing Prayer: Bishop Ben Williams “Gracious God, we thank You for our unity. We especially lift up Bishop Greer and the heavy burden he carries for the Church and this committee; grant him strength and move us to offer him our full support. Guide us as a beacon of truth for those in need. Amen.”
Closing and Next Meeting: The next meeting will be held on January 30, 2026, at 8:00 PM (PST). Thank you for your tireless commitment.
Together, we are building a “beacon of truth” for those who need it most.
In Faith and Justice, Padre Ricardo Romero, OSFoc Director, Office of Faith, Justice & Humanitarian Efforts