With faith in the Risen Lord, we share the sad news of the passing of Deacon Robert Shauger of Holy Trinity Parish in El Dorado Hills. Deacon Shauger entered eternal life on February 14, 2026, at the age of 85.

Ordained to the diaconate in 2005 in San Francisco, Deacon Bob faithfully served the Diocese of Sacramento for more than ten years. Through his ministry at Holy Trinity Parish, he assisted at the altar, proclaimed the Gospel, and accompanied the faithful with a spirit of service, prayer, and pastoral care. His dedication to the Church and love for God’s people were a quiet but lasting witness of faith.

Please join us in praying for the repose of his soul and for the consolation of his wife, Grace, his family, and all who mourn his passing.

February 19, 2026

Bishop Soto, the Department of Catholic Schools and the faithful of the Diocese of Sacramento are grateful that the incident involving a former student attempting to enter St. Mary Parish School’s Ash Wednesday Mass with a gun was resolved safely and that no students, teachers or staff were harmed.

The off-duty law enforcement parents of the St. Mary community who were volunteering their time to act as parent observers for the school Mass prevented the former student from entering the Church and detained him until on-duty police arrived. We are grateful for their vigilance and the safety protocols in place at St. Mary School.

This incident has raised concerns amongst our school communities regarding school safety, specifically at Mass. Please be assured that the safety of our students remains our highest priority.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a season in which the faithful are called to reflect on the Paschal Mystery more intently. It is a time of spiritual renewal and to examine one’s relationship with God and others more carefully. It is also a time in which catechumens prepare to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. The Church calls everyone, therefore, to a spirit of penance through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.