Originally published at Southern Cross
RANCHO BERNARDO — The Indian Catholic community’s annual Mass honored St. Francis Xavier, a founding member of the Society of Jesus who played a central role in spreading the faith in India and China in the 16th century.
Auxiliary Bishop Michael Pham celebrated the Mass on Sept. 28 at San Rafael Church. He noted that it was not easy for St. Francis, originally from Spain, to spread the faith in foreign lands.
“He immersed himself in the culture of India. He learned the language, so that he was able to share the love of Jesus through his words and actions,” the bishop said.
He challenged the faithful to follow his example.
“As Christ’s disciples, our mission is to proclaim the Good News. How are you going to do it in the here and now?”
Though they live across the diocese, Indian Catholics worship and serve at key parishes, such as Good Shepherd, San Rafael and St. Michael. They united as one cultural community at the diocese seven years ago and held their first Mass in 2019.
“Look at us today, together,” noted Bishop Pham in his homily. “Though we may speak different languages and dialects, we are one family of God.”
