Diocese of the Ecumenical Catholic Servants of the Good Shepherd

Serving Christ.
Shepherding God's People.

A Catholic community rooted in the Gospel, nourished by the Sacraments.

Saint Matthew Ecumenical Catholic Church — Brea, CA

The heart of our diocese, Saint Matthew Ecumenical Catholic Church in Brea serves as the diocesan home — offering the Eucharist, multilingual pastoral care, and a welcoming community for all who seek Christ.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel — Victorville, CA

A reverent sanctuary adorned with sacred art, Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel serves the faithful of the High Desert through the celebration of the Eucharist, pastoral care, and devotion to Our Lady.

Our Lady of the Rosary Church — Los Angeles, CA

Serving the faithful of South Los Angeles, Our Lady of the Rosary Church (Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario) is a vibrant community of faith centered on the Eucharist and devoted to Our Lady.

Miraculous Church of Christ — Placentia, CA

A beloved neighborhood church serving Placentia and Moreno Valley. Cristo Milagroso unites families in faith through worship, Spanish-language ministry, and the celebration of the sacraments.

Saint Francis of Assisi Old Catholic Church — Huntington Park, CA

Named for the beloved saint of humility and compassion, Saint Francis of Assisi serves the Huntington Park community with the sacraments, Spanish-language ministry, and charitable outreach.

Good Shepherd Mission — Harbor City, CA

Our Good Shepherd Mission reflects the heart of ECSGS — a gathering of faithful disciples committed to worship, formation, and pastoral outreach in the spirit of Christ the Good Shepherd.

House of Ruth & Junia Catholic Specialized Ministry — Retreats, Bible Study, Masses — Anaheim, CA

Located in the Historic District of Anaheim, Saint Junia and House of Ruth provides a welcoming place of ministry, pastoral care, and spiritual support for those in need.

IASJ Simbayan Filipino Ministry — Southern California

The Simbayan Filipino Ministry gathers the faithful in community, prayer, and service — bringing the vibrant spirit of Filipino Catholic tradition to our diocese.

Visit a Parish Learn About Us

Our Story

What Is ECSGS?

The Diocese of the Ecumenical Catholic Servants of the Good Shepherd is an independent Catholic diocese within the broader Ecumenical Catholic tradition — preserving the sacramental life and pastoral tradition of the historic Catholic Church while serving diverse communities through worship, formation, and mission.

Vision & Mission

Our vision is to build vibrant Catholic communities centered on the Eucharist, compassionate pastoral care, and servant leadership — where all people may encounter Christ and grow as disciples in service of God's Kingdom.

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Christ-Centered Faith

Jesus Christ is the foundation of our faith and mission. We proclaim the Gospel and live according to His teachings of love, mercy, and reconciliation.

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Sacramental Life

We celebrate the Seven Sacraments as channels of God's grace, with the Holy Eucharist at the center of our worship and unity.

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Servant Leadership

Following Christ the Good Shepherd, our bishops, clergy, and lay leaders serve with humility, accountability, and pastoral care.

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Christian Unity

As an ecumenical Catholic church, we promote dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect among all Christians.

Our Identity

Why Ecumenical Catholic?

The term reflects both our Catholic heritage and our commitment to Christian unity — preserving the sacramental life of the historic Church while fostering a spirit of openness, dialogue, and pastoral care for all.

The Meaning of "Catholic"

The word "Catholic" means universal — referring to the historic Christian faith proclaimed since the time of the Apostles. We preserve and celebrate the fullness of the sacramental tradition, the creeds, and the apostolic ministry.

The Meaning of "Ecumenical"

From the Greek for "the whole inhabited world," ecumenical refers to the effort to promote unity and cooperation among Christians — seeking the unity for which Christ prayed across all traditions and cultures.

Our Relation to Rome

We share belief in the Trinity, the Sacraments, the Creeds, and the historic ministry of bishop, priest, and deacon. We are organizationally independent — not under the Vatican — while sharing the spiritual and theological heritage of the Catholic tradition.

What We Profess

Our Beliefs

We profess the historic Christian faith handed down through Scripture and the living tradition of the Church, expressed in the Apostles' and Nicene Creeds — the faith of the universal Church from the earliest centuries.

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The Holy Trinity

We believe in one God — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — who calls all humanity into a relationship of love, faith, and salvation.

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Jesus Christ, Lord & Savior

We believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God, incarnate for our salvation, who died for our sins and rose again in glory, offering forgiveness and new life.

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Sacred Scripture

We receive the Holy Bible as the inspired Word of God and the primary witness to God's revelation in Jesus Christ, guiding the faith and life of the Church.

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The Seven Sacraments

Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Holy Matrimony — channels of God's grace and presence in the life of the faithful.

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The Church

We believe the Church is the Body of Christ, called to worship God, proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and serve the world in love.

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The Call to Holiness

All baptized Christians are called to lives of holiness, compassion, justice, and service — living the Gospel as disciples of Christ every day.

Shepherding the Diocese

Meet the Bishop

Our bishop serves as chief pastor and spiritual shepherd, working with clergy and lay leaders to nurture vibrant parish communities in the spirit of Christ the Good Shepherd.

Most Rev. Arturo Ferreras, ECSGS, D.D.

First Presiding Bishop of the Diocese

"The mission of the Church is to lead people into a living relationship with Jesus Christ. As shepherds and servants of God's people, we are called to proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and accompany one another in faith, hope, and love."

Entrusted with safeguarding the faith and guiding the mission of the Church, Bishop Ferreras oversees the proclamation of the Gospel, the celebration of the sacraments, clergy formation, and the growth of parish communities across the diocese.

Contact: bparturo.ecsgs@gmail.com · (562) 746-6106

Chosen and Sent

Where We Worship

Parishes, Missions & Outreach

Our communities span Southern California and beyond — from established parishes to growing mission and outreach communities, each offering the celebration of the sacraments and compassionate pastoral care.

Parishes

Saint Matthew Ecumenical Catholic Church

500 E Imperial Highway, Brea, CA 92821
📞 (714) 647-1773 · Office: Fri–Wed 10am–3pm

Most Rev. Arturo Ferreras – Presiding Bishop
Fr. Tony Russo – Administrative
📞 (714) 353-7856
Fr. Ben Madriaga – Spanish Ministry
📞 (714) 392-4699
Fr. Clemente Cruz – Spanish Ministry
📞 (714) 553-5612
Rev Mthr. Adelia Sandoval – Indian Ministry
Deacon Jay Thompson · Deacon Anthonyraj Bharat

🌐 Visit Website

Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel

9122 Sunset Rd., Victorville, CA 92392

Rev. Fr. Roy – Parish Priest
📞 (661) 748-2210
Rev. Fr. Martin Gutierrez – Associate
📞 (909) 516-9488

🌐 Visit Website

Missions & Outreach Communities

Our Lady of the Rosary Church

7813 S Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90003

Rev. Fr. Nery del Cid – Pastor
📞 (562) 531-2660

Miraculous Church of Christ

636 S Van Buren St., Placentia, CA 92870
Also serving: Moreno Valley Mission

Rev. Fr. Adolfo Perez – Pastor
📞 (562) 912-9854

Saint Francis of Assisi Old Catholic Church

6401 Rugby Ave., Huntington Park, CA 90255

Fr. Jesus Ponzi – Associate Priest
📞 (323) 636-5405
Deacon Rafael Bajar
📞 (747) 786-6970
Sis. Rosario

Good Shepherd Mission & Mission Chapels

Good Shepherd Mission – 25265 Belle Porte Ave., Harbor City, CA 90710
Betania Mission Chapel – Los Angeles · St. John the Baptist Mission – Santa Ana

Rev. Fr. Gregorio Lopez – Pastor & Chaplain
📞 (562) 531-2660
Rev. Fr. Antonio Zagal – Associate
📞 (323) 791-8651

Saint Junia and House of Ruth Special Ministry

House of Ruth & Junia Catholic Specialized Ministry — Retreats, Bible Study, Masses

618 W Grafton Place, Anaheim, CA (Historic District)

Mthr. Martha Rogers
📞 (714) 606-4365
Mthr. Jetty Vanden Berghe – Belgium Ministry
📞 (714) 343-8274

Chaplaincy Ministry

Tyson Food Co. HQ – Springdale, AR
Hospital Chaplaincy – Pasadena, CA

Fr. Matthew Sukchen
📞 (909) 418-8427
Fr. Francis Soundojararan – CPE Supervisory Student
📞 (502) 768-7722
Mthr. Leslie Beckhart Jenal – Hospital Chaplain, Pasadena
📞 (626) 484-2591

IASJ Simbayan Filipino Ministry

Interfaith Action on Social Justice (IASJ)
Southern California — Associated with Saint Matthew Church

Fr. Toting Tronco – Filipino Ministry
📞 (714) 801-5230
Fr. Julian Gomilla
📞 (714) 203-4679
Fr. Rene Garcia · Fr. Remigio
Fr. George Florendo – Home Care Chaplain
📞 (213) 595-5379

Acjacheman Tribal Nation Outreach Mission

31411 La Matanza St, Suite A
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Rev. Mother Adelia Sandoval – Spiritual Leader
📞 (949) 632-0315 Mariah Doyle – Associate
📞 (714) 875-2368

International Mission

Home of Love — India

The Samraksha Charitable Trust's Home of Love in India is a beacon of compassion and mercy — serving children, families, and those in need through the healing love of Christ. ECSGS supports this mission as a testament to our global commitment to the Gospel.

Samraksha Charitable Trust

Located in Vijayawada Village, Guntapur Post, Karnataka, India, the Home of Love provides shelter, education, food, and spiritual formation for children and families living in poverty. Through this partnership, ECSGS lives out the Gospel call to serve the poorest among us.

This ministry is led by Fr. Bhaskar Madannu, who coordinates the India Family Pantry Ministry from Southern California, connecting our diocese to this vital mission across the world.

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Contact

Fr. Bhaskar Madannu · (949) 685-3236

How We Serve

Our Ministries

We are committed to building strong communities through ministries that nurture the life of the Church and serve the wider world — from clergy formation to international outreach.

$Saint Cyprian School of Theology$

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Saint Cyprian School of Theology — Diaconate Formation Program

Formation & Education

The Saint Cyprian School of Theology serves as the diocesan formation and education program for candidates discerning the permanent diaconate and ordained ministry within ECSGS. Rooted in scripture, Catholic tradition, and pastoral theology, the program equips deacons and clergy with the theological foundation, spiritual formation, and pastoral skills needed to serve God's people with wisdom, humility, and fidelity. The program also offers continuing education for clergy and lay formation opportunities for all the faithful.

Programs

St. Cyprian Diaconate Program

Formation

Clergy Continuing Education

Open To

Lay Formation & All Faithful

$Clergy Formation and Parish Development$

Clergy Formation & Parish Development

The Church carefully forms candidates for the ordained ministry through spiritual formation, theological education, and pastoral training. ECSGS actively supports parish communities through guidance in leadership, governance, financial stewardship, and ministry planning.

Pastoral Outreach & Social Justice

Following the example of Christ the Good Shepherd, our clergy and lay ministers provide pastoral care through prayer, counseling, and sacramental ministry. Our communities engage in charitable works, community support, and advocacy for justice, peace, and human dignity.

Youth Ministry & Lay Formation

Our Youth Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of young people through gatherings, retreats, catechesis, and service. Our Lay Formation programs prepare individuals to serve in various ministries — equipping all the faithful to live and serve as witnesses of Christ.

Acjacheman Tribal Nation Outreach

Led by Rev. Mother Adelia Sandoval, ECSGS serves the Acjacheman Tribal Nation — the indigenous people of Orange County, California — through pastoral care, cultural respect, and spiritual ministry rooted in honoring Native heritage within the Catholic tradition.

Rev. Adelia Sandoval

Rev. Adelia Sandoval is the Spiritual Overseer (Púul) and Cultural Director for the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians/Acjachemen Nation. A ceremonial healer, song keeper, and ordained minister, she preserves her people's heritage through writing, storytelling, and song.

She serves as a vital wisdom holder for her tribe — sharing Acjachemen history and connecting audiences with the region's original inhabitants. She founded and directs the tribal women's singing group Tushmaluum Heleqatuum ("the hummingbirds that sing").

Mother Adelia was a featured keynote panelist at WordFest OC at Saddleback College, participating in "Origin Stories: Indigenous & Immigrant Voices of Orange County" — celebrating the living tradition and literature of the Acjachemen people.

International & Specialized Ministries

From the Samraksha Charitable Trust in India to the Acjacheman Tribal Nation Outreach and the Indian Outreach Ministry in Southern California, ECSGS extends its mission of service and compassion — locally, among indigenous peoples, and globally — through our network of specialized clergy and lay ministers.

You Are Welcome Here

Visit & Worship

Whether you are exploring the Catholic faith for the first time or returning after years away, you are welcome at any of our parishes. Here is what to expect.

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The Liturgy

Our worship is rooted in the historic Catholic liturgical tradition — reverent, sacramental, and centered on the Holy Eucharist. You will find familiar prayers, Scripture readings, and the celebration of Mass in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

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Visitors & Newcomers

There is no dress code, and you are welcome as you are. All baptized Christians are welcome to receive Holy Communion. Our communities are warm and approachable — please introduce yourself after Mass.

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Find a Service

We have parishes and mission communities throughout Greater Los Angeles and beyond — in Brea, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, Placentia, Victorville, Harbor City, and Santa Ana. Contact your nearest parish for current service times.

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Get in Touch

If you have questions before your visit, our clergy and staff are happy to help. Reach us through the contact form below or call the diocesan office at Saint Matthew Church: (714) 647-1773.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about our faith, identity, sacraments, and practice.

What does "Ecumenical Catholic" mean?

It reflects our Catholic heritage — preserving sacramental life and apostolic ministry — alongside our commitment to Christian unity. We are part of the historic Catholic tradition while fostering openness, dialogue, and pastoral care for all people.

Are you part of the Roman Catholic Church?

No. ECSGS is self-governing and not under the jurisdiction of the Vatican or the Roman Catholic Church. We share the theological and spiritual heritage of the Catholic tradition but operate independently, with our own bishops and diocesan structure.

Can I receive Communion at an ECSGS parish?

Yes. All baptized Christians are welcome to receive Holy Communion at our Masses. We believe the Eucharist is a gift for the whole people of God, offered with reverence and pastoral care.

Are your clergy married?

Yes. ECSGS does not require celibacy for its clergy. Married men and women may be ordained, and we celebrate the diverse gifts that clergy from all walks of life bring to pastoral ministry.

How do I become a member or join a parish?

Simply visit any of our parishes and speak with the pastor or parish staff. Our communities welcome all who wish to be part of the ECSGS family in faith — there is no lengthy formal process to begin.

How can I discern a vocation to the priesthood or diaconate?

Contact the diocesan office or speak with your local parish priest. Our formation process includes spiritual direction, theological education, and pastoral training. We welcome inquiries from all who feel called to ordained or lay ministry.

Stay Connected

News & Events

Diocesan announcements, upcoming events, and ministry highlights from across our communities.

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Diocesan News

Annual Diocesan Gathering — All Are Welcome

Join clergy and faithful from across the diocese for a day of prayer, formation, and community. Contact your parish for date and location details.

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Ministry Update

IASJ Simbayan Filipino Ministry Continues to Grow

The IASJ Filipino Ministry offers worship, community, and outreach for Filipino families throughout Southern California, associated with Saint Matthew Church.

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Vocation

Is God Calling You to Ministry?

ECSGS is accepting vocation inquiries for the priesthood and diaconate. Speak with your pastor or contact the diocesan office to begin the discernment conversation.

Reach Out

Contact & Connect

We'd love to hear from you — whether you have a question, a pastoral need, or simply want to learn more about ECSGS and our communities.

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Diocesan Office

Saint Matthew Ecumenical Catholic Church
500 E Imperial Highway, Brea, CA 92821
Office: Fri–Wed 10am–3pm (Thu Closed)

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Phone

(714) 647-1773 — Diocesan Office
(562) 746-6106 — Bishop's Office

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bparturo.ecsgs@gmail.com
Fr. Tony Russo (Admin): (714) 353-7856

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Connect with us on social media for news, event updates, and community highlights from across the diocese.

Serving Christ.
Shepherding God's People.