In this grace-filled year, the Diocese of Orange rejoices in milestones of profound significance: the 75th birthday and 45th anniversary of priestly ordination of our beloved shepherd, the Most Reverend Kevin W. Vann, Bishop of Orange, together with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diocese. With grateful hearts, we lift our prayers in thanksgiving to God for the gift of his life, his vocation, and his enduring presence among us.

Since his ordination to the priesthood in 1981, Bishop Vann has faithfully poured out his life in service to Christ and His Church. His journey has been marked by quiet fidelity, pastoral charity, and a steadfast commitment to the Gospel. In every assignment and responsibility, he has borne witness to a vocation rooted deeply in faith and sustained by love.

Called to serve as the fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Orange in 2012, he has, for more than a decade, guided our Church with wisdom, humility, and a gentle yet resolute spirit. His episcopal motto, “In Fide et Dilectione in Christo Iesu”—“In Faith and Love in Christ Jesus”—is not merely a phrase, but a truth embodied in the way he leads, teaches, and shepherds his people.

Under his care, the Diocese of Orange has experienced both renewal and growth. The transformation of Christ Cathedral stands as a visible sign of this new chapter—a place for Christ forever, a sacred space that welcomes the faithful and lifts hearts to God. Yet even more enduring is his commitment to building a living Church: one that nurtures families, forms young disciples, serves the poor, and proclaims the Gospel across generations.

Bishop Vann’s pastoral heart shines most brightly in his embrace of the rich cultural tapestry of the diocese. With genuine affection and attentiveness, he has fostered a Church where diverse communities are not only welcomed, but truly at home. His support for the many ethnic apostolates  – especially through their liturgies and celebrations at Christ Cathedral—reveals his deep conviction that the universality of the Church is a gift to be cherished and celebrated.

Each weekend, the campus of Christ Cathedral becomes a gathering place for more than ten thousand faithful, united in worship yet enriched by diversity. The celebration of the Eucharist in Chinese, English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, along with the monthly Filipino Mass, reflects the living reality of a Church that speaks in many voices, yet professes one faith.

Throughout the year, this unity in diversity finds vibrant expression in major diocesan celebrations. The Filipino community honors the devotion of Poong Jesus Nazareno and the beauty of Simbang Gabi. The Hispanic community brings forth the traditions of El Día de los Altares, Noche de Guadalupe, and the solemn feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe – the principal patroness of our Diocese. The Korean community gathers its young people in faith and fellowship, while the Vietnamese community celebrates Lunar New Year, Marian Days, and the witness of the 117 Vietnamese Holy Martyrs. In these sacred moments, thousands come together and each culture offers its unique voice in a single hymn of praise.

As the Diocese of Orange marks the 50th anniversary of its establishment, we recognize with gratitude the providential role Bishop Vann has played in leading us into this golden jubilee. Under his pastoral care, this milestone becomes not only a remembrance of the past, but a renewed call to mission. With a steady vision and a shepherd’s heart, he invites the faithful to honor the legacy of those who came before us while embracing the future with hope, courage, and faith. In this historic moment, he continues to guide the diocese in building a Church that is ever more vibrant, united, and centered in Christ.

In seasons of trial and of joy alike, Bishop Vann has remained a steady and compassionate shepherd. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his unwavering proclamation of the dignity of life and the truth of the Gospel, have strengthened the faith of many. With a listening heart and a fatherly presence, he continues to walk alongside his people, guiding them ever closer to Christ.

As we commemorate this joyful convergence of anniversaries, we entrust Bishop Vann to the loving care of God, praying that he may be blessed with good health, renewed strength, and deep spiritual joy. May the Lord who has begun this good work in him bring it to fulfillment in the years ahead.

With gratitude and affection, we offer our prayer: Ad multos annos, Bishop Vann! Through the intercessions of our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Joseph, may the Lord grant you many more blessed years in faithful service to His Church!