Grace Napolitano: “I am very pleased to introduce to the House and bid welcome to Father Mike Gutierrez today. He is the pastor at St. John…”

“I am very pleased to introduce to the House and bid welcome to Father Mike Gutierrez today. He is the pastor at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and school in the city of Baldwin Park in California. Thank you, Father, for coming from Baldwin Park and for the wonderful prayer. Father Mike, as he is known--he doesn't use Gutierrez--leads a parish of 10,000 families with a focus on Filipino and Hispanic communities. He has increased participation in religious and educational programs, youth and family ministry, and allows the church to bring attention and encourage activism on issues impacting the area. He is an integral part of the 32nd District's, my district, annual immigration clinic event and is known for his joviality and smiling consistently. Since my move to the California 32nd, he has been helpful in many issues and events that I have put forth, recognized by the California State Legislature and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for support of social issues. Father, thank you. Thank you for today's blessing and for the work you do to spread and promote Gospel throughout the San Gabriel Valley. May God continue to bless you and your ministry. ____________________”