Venerable Alphonse Gallegos (February 20, 1931 – October 6, 1991)
Birth into heaven: October 6, 1991
Declared Venerable in 2016
Born in New Mexico but long a pastor and advocate in Los Angeles, became known as the “Bishop of the Barrio” for his bold outreach to low-income neighborhoods, Hispanic communities, gang-involved youth, and immigrants.
“I would like to be remembered as having helped the young people to appreciate who they are and to value the life God has given them. I would also like to be remembered as having appreciated people and all that they have to offer in making the world a better place to live in.”