The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry is pleased to announce that Bishop Jaime Soto from the Diocese of Orange is our new episcopal liaison. Bishop Soto’s four-year term began November 2004. The episcopal liaison serves as an advocate for the NFCYM and for youth ministry with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Bishop Soto will also keep the NFCYM informed about issues and directions of the USCCB.
No stranger to the Federation and youth ministry, Bishop Soto has been involved in the National Catholic Youth Conference, Youth Congress, and World Youth Day gatherings. Michele Mack, director of youth ministry for Orange, says that Bishop Soto has been very supportive of and involved in diocesan youth ministry efforts and thinks this new position is a blessing for both the Diocese of Orange and the NFCYM. Bishop Soto currently serves on the USCCB Subcommittee for Youth and Young Adults.
Ordained to the priesthood in 1982, Bishop Soto became auxiliary bishop of Orange in 2000. Bishop Soto serves as vicar for charities, responsible for the various diocesan Catholic Charities programs, and as vicar for the Hispanic community. Additionally, Bishop Soto serves on various church and community boards. Bishop Soto has a master’s of divinity from St. John’s Seminary in Camarillo, California, and a master’s of social work from the Columbia University School of Social Work. His personal hobbies include an appreciation for contemporary art, touring museums, and listening to jazz.
Bishop Soto follows Bishop Matthew H. Clark, bishop of Rochester, who served two terms as episcopal liaison. Bishop Soto’s first duty was as keynote presenter at the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry, held in Pittsburgh, this past December. The NFCYM warmly welcomes Bishop Soto to this new adventure in youth ministry.
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