Bishop Michael Pham was installed as the head of the San Diego Diocese on July 17, 2025. Pham, the first Vietnamese American bishop to lead a U.S. diocese, emphasized themes of diversity and social justice in his remarks. He called for serving all people without discrimination, particularly the poor, homeless, immigrants, migrants, and refugees. The installation Mass took place at St. Thérèse of Carmel Parish and included the presence of several cardinals and bishops.
15 days ago
Bishop Michael Pham was formally installed as the leader of the San Diego Diocese on July 17, 2025, marking a significant moment as he becomes the first Vietnamese American bishop to head a U.S. diocese 1. The installation Mass took place at St. Thérèse of Carmel Parish in San Diego, drawing a packed congregation 1.
During his homily, Bishop Pham emphasized themes of diversity and social justice, stating a commitment to serving all people without discrimination, particularly the poor, the homeless, immigrants, migrants, refugees, and the voiceless 1. He referenced John's Gospel, highlighting that serving others requires "daily dying," and called for bringing a spirit of love to a world filled with division and hatred through active participation in justice, peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation 1.
Bishop Pham underscored the importance of listening, citing Pope Francis's view that it is key to creating synodality within the Church 1. He articulated that only through listening to the word of God and to each other can the Church be guided by the Holy Spirit to rectify injustices in the world and achieve peace 1.
Apostolic nuncio Christophe Pierre read a personal message from Pope Leo XIV, who praised Bishop Pham's suitability for the role, noting his "genuine zeal" and "skill" in both pastoral demands and administration 1. After hearing the pontiff's official decree, Bishop Pham publicly pledged to faithfully serve the spiritual needs of the local church in San Diego 1.
Bishop Pham connected with the diverse congregation by speaking briefly in Vietnamese and Spanish during his homily 1. He also displayed humility and humor, likening himself to "Yoda" from "Star Wars" due to his height, stating that all are called to be "bearers of hope and beacons of good news to peace, justice and love for all," regardless of stature 1. The installation Mass was attended by prominent figures, including Cardinal Robert McElroy, Cardinal Roger Mahony, and Archbishop José Gomez 1.
How does the Church embrace diversity and serve all people?
The Catholic Church embraces diversity and serves all people by recognizing the inherent dignity of every human being, promoting inclusion, and adapting its evangelization efforts to various cultures while remaining faithful to the core truths of the Gospel .
The Church's attention to humanity is an integral part of its mission, rooted in the belief that salvation achieved by Jesus Christ concerns every person as a whole . The Second Vatican Council emphasized that "nothing that is genuinely human fails to find an echo in the hearts" of Christ's disciples . This commitment to human dignity means that the Church proclaims the equal dignity of all people, regardless of their living conditions or qualities .
The Church strives to be a home for everyone, without exclusion, reflecting the Lord's invitation to all to the banquet of life . This inclusivity means that no ethnic or linguistic group should feel like a stranger within the Church; all are to be accepted and fully appreciated . Pope Paul VI famously stated to the first Gypsy pilgrimage, "You are in the heart of the Church," a sentiment echoed by Pope John Paul II .
The Church recognizes that its concrete methods of evangelization and efforts to promote peace and justice are shaped by its unity and diversity . The Good News of Jesus must be proclaimed in a language and with symbols that particular people understand, corresponding to their aspirations, needs, and ways of life . This process, known as inculturation, involves integrating the Gospel message into various human cultures while preserving the essential truth and unity of the Church's teaching . The Second Vatican Council acknowledged that the Church is enriched by "the treasures hidden in the various forms of human culture" .
The Church's commitment to serving the integral well-being of humanity and all nations is central to its mission, overcoming worldly and particular interests . This service includes respecting human dignity and inalienable rights, supporting material, moral, and spiritual development, and enhancing the quality of life . The Church cooperates with all people of good will who are dedicated to the common good .
Historically, the Church has demonstrated its pastoral care for immigrants and refugees, welcoming waves of new arrivals and providing continuous support . This reflects the love of Christ, who said, "I was a stranger and you welcomed me" (Matthew 25:35) .
Beyond simply providing access and overcoming physical barriers, the Church seeks to foster a spirituality of communion . This means ensuring that every person, with their unique personality, limitations, and gifts, feels part of the ecclesial body and is encouraged to contribute to the good of the entire Church and society . The goal is for Christian communities to be places where "belonging" and "inclusion" are not just words but become an aim of ordinary pastoral action .
In summary, the Church embraces diversity and serves all people by upholding the dignity of every individual, fostering an inclusive environment where all are welcomed and valued, and adapting its evangelization to diverse cultures while maintaining the integrity of its faith .