My Dear Friends,

In the Gospel according to St. John 15, Jesus spoke so affectionately of his disciples, calling him his friends.

Over these past nine years, God has graced me with all of you as dear friends. We have journeyed together as one during a time of great growth and challenge in so many areas of our ministry. Yet, in all of this, God’s hand was protecting us and guiding us. God’s direction for us may have been at times a bit hazy or different than our own. Still, God was with us, never abandoning us.

I have so much enjoyed these nine years as auxiliary bishop to Bishop William K. Weigand. He has been a patient, guiding mentor to me, and I thank him both for his wisdom and his friendship.

I believe it was a particular blessing to live through the experience of the “gift” of Dr. Dan Haverty and his family to renew Bishop Weigand. I will never forget the graciousness and prayers of all involved.

In particular, also, I will remember the many miles I drove — approximately 265,520 — to visit our many parishes and institutions. I remember the beauty of Highway 49 and Highway 97, especially with the snow abounding.

I will always treasure the school visits. The questions and gifts of the children are a remarkable reminder to me of why Jesus said “you must become like little children.”

I will remember my visits to the migrant camps and so many of our staff and volunteers assisting us – what an annual blessing for me. I felt so humbled each time I celebrated Mass or visited individual families at these migrant camps.

And very close to my heart will be my many visits to our seven state prisons and juvenile facilities. I have a truckload of their art and letters. These men and youth have been a constant source of inspiration and affirmation for me.

Also, our very diverse and richly cultural communities have given me a broader and more profound appreciation for all we share in common. Truly, “there are many faces in God’s house.”

Our Pastoral Center staff has been remarkable, especially in the many challenges we have faced together. I thank them for all they did for me and with me.

Lastly, I thank all of you, the faithful of the diocese. You have been a constant source of hope and prayer. You have reminded me of how a shepherd should be and what one should do. I very humbly thank you for teaching me and allowing me to see the face of God in each of you. Truly, I will miss you. But I do hope that through prayer and every so often a visit to my new area of ministry, we may remain connected, with our hearts always bound as friends.

God bless you, and please do pray for me.

Love,
+Richard J. Garcia
Bishop of Monterey

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