‘Bishop of the Barrio’ declared venerable

Pope Francis signed a decree July 8 recognizing the heroic virtues of Bishop Alphonse Gallegos, who had been previously recognized as a Servant of God.

Bishop Gallegos, who was ordained a priest with the Augustinian Recollect Friars in 1958, was known as “the chaplain of the low riders” after he began serving high home parish, San Miguel in Watts. He developed a reputation for visiting Latino youth who customized their cars on Friday and Saturday nights.

He also served briefly at Cristo Rey before going on to serve in the Division of Hispanic Affairs of the California Catholic Conference. More information about Bishop Gallegos is available online: augustianianrecollects.us.