The November–December 2025 issue of Catholic Herald magazine has been published. The theme of this issue is “International Priests: Shepherds in the Vineyard.” The digital edition is available at
https://catholicmagazines.org/magazine-archive/catholic-herald/sac1125
In this issue, Catholic Herald shines a light on the international priests who serve faithfully across the Diocese of Sacramento, men who left their homelands to answer God’s call in a new vineyard. In the cover story, "Leading Our Flock: International Priests Are Shepherds in the Diocese of Sacramento," readers will meet three remarkable shepherds whose journeys of faith transcend borders and language but unite in a single mission: to shepherd God’s people with love and devotion.
From the Holy Land, Father Amer Awad followed a path that led him through France and ultimately to the heart of midtown Sacramento, where he now serves as pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish. His story is one of perseverance and peace — a pilgrimage of faith that continues to bear fruit in the community he now calls home.
Monsignor Carlos Aviles Canton, a priest from Nicaragua, found himself forced to leave his homeland under persecution. In the Diocese of Sacramento, he discovered a place of refuge and renewal, where his steadfast faith and pastoral spirit now bring comfort and unity to those he serves.
And from Kenya, Father Julius Kaburu embodies the missionary heart of the Church, a joyful witness whose service reminds us that the Gospel knows no boundaries.
In "Supporting Future Shepherds," Vocations Director Fr. Mauricio Hurtado reflects on his own call to the priesthood and his ministry of accompanying seminarians and discerners as they seek to follow the Lord’s invitation to serve His Church.
Readers will also find an infographic feature detailing the growing presence of international clergy throughout the United States, including statistics on the origins and service of foreign-born priests within our own diocese.
Bishop Jaime Soto’s column, "Joy of Heaven on Earth" invites readers to embrace the joy of the Incarnation as we enter the Advent and Christmas seasons.
Additional columns in this issue include reflections on the recent canonization of Saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, a meditation on Journeying Through Advent with John the Baptist, and a spiritual guide inspired by Saint Elizabeth’s Roadmap for Holiness.
Bishop Jaime Soto is the publisher of Catholic Herald magazine, which is published six times each year and includes moving faith stories about Catholics in the diocese, as well as news and events of the local church. Individual faith stories are the cornerstone of the magazine and columns also explore the Catholic faith and education about church teachings. To donate $15 per year to receive Catholic Herald magazine, call 916-733-0266. To view the archive of past issues of Catholic Herald magazine, visit https://www.scd.org/catholicherald