Visitation: San Bernabe/St. Barnabas
Bishop Rob Price baptized three and confirmed two at St. Barnabas-San Bernabe in Garland on Sunday. This parish has services in English and Spanish and consider themselves "One Church, Two Languages."
The Rev. Juana Lara serves as vicar and leads both services and is well loved by both congregations. Historically, the Spanish-language parishioners came from St. Matthew's Cathedral and moved to the Garland building before Covid with about 500 folks. Since many lived closer to the Cathedral they eventually left San Bernabe leaving less than half of the original congregation. Sometimes money is a little tight, but the parish pays its bills on time, said Treasurer Susan Vaden, "We somehow always make it," she said. God always provides."
Despite a small budget the church gives thanks for their blessings and gives to those without. Lay leader Dennis Garcia church has an active food pantry and ministry. The church partners with Catholic Charities to provide food for families in the neighborhood every third Friday of the month. A lot of times the parents will drop off kids at the nearby schools and then come to the church for food, Garcia said. It's a blessing to serve others, he said.
The church is also excited about the formation of youth and are currently preparing for Vacation Bible School which is a big event in the life of this parish. The Lord's work is in this place and in these wonderful people.