Today’s virtual pilgrimage takes us to the state capital of California and the tomb of an unassuming Catholic hero, the Venerable Alphonse Gallegos, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Albuquerque-born Bishop Gallegos lived the beatitudes and was known as the “bishop of the Barrios,” for his ministry to the poor in Los Angeles and Sacramento. He died in a tragic car accident in 1991 after returning from a pro life rally. His episcopal motto was simply: Love one Another.
He grew up in the rough neighborhood of Watts in Los Angeles, and overcame significant vision impairments and “academic deficiencies” in his youth. He eventually served as pastor of the parish there, widely known as “Father Al.” As priest and later bishop, Gallegos was known for engaging the at-risk youth and migrants, meeting them where they were on the streets, bringing the redeeming message of the Gospels to them, and affirming their dignity. In explaining his approach to these marginalized youth in one of L.A.’s poorest neighborhoods, he told a reporter: “Before, standing on the street corner, they felt the world had nothing to offer—until they discovered that they had something to offer the world.”
He gained tremendous respect among the marginalized that would carry on with him to Sacramento; to this day, the “low-riders” organize an annual car parade in his honor.
During his lifetime of service, he was renowned for his accompaniment of the poor and sick. As this article in Angelus News recalls, it is even believed he worked a miracle curing a sick two year girl who was on the verge of death.
As we prepare for Christ’s coming at Christmas, it is a time to reflect on what more we can do to live a life of humble service to the poor – to take the life experiences that God gives us and use them to better the lives of others. Indeed, this is what Bishop Gallegos did.
Discover Catholic Sacramento
If you are interested in learning more about Catholic Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay area, read my guide to Catholic Sacramento here.
Concluding Psalm
As a concluding psalm, let us reflect on the words of Psalm 32:
“I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk,”I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel with my eye upon you. Do not be like a horse or mule, without understanding; with bit and bridle their temper is curbed, else they will not come to you.” (Psalm 32: 8-9)
Previous days of the pilgrimage:
Day 1 – Rapid City, South Dakota
Day 2 – Montana
CATHOLIC CONCIERGE 
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