On February 1, the Archbishop of Los Angeles, José H. Gomez, hosted the annual Mass and dinner honoring the Council of Religious Brothers of the Archdiocese, a tradition that has strengthened fraternity and vocation for nearly three decades.
This year’s gathering carried special significance. Brother Larry J. Moen, CMF, who has been involved in organizing the event for the past 19 years as chairman of the council, officially stepped down from his leadership role, expressing his desire to make space for Brother José Castañeda to continue the mission.
The evening included a special Mass celebrated by the archbishop, followed by a dinner where Brother Larry J. Moen, CMF received recognition for his faithful service. The atmosphere was marked by fraternity, gratitude, and renewed commitment to religious life.
A Claretian Initiative with Lasting Impact
This annual gathering traces its roots back to 1975, when three Claretian brothers, along with brothers from other religious congregations helped establish the Religious Brothers Council in the archdiocese of Los Angeles. Their vision was simple but powerful: create a space where religious brothers can gather annually with the archbishop for prayer, support, and community.
For over 30 years, the tradition has continued, becoming a vital moment of unity for brothers serving across ministries in the archdiocese.
Brother Larry helped ensure the continuity and growth of the initiative. Under his leadership, the annual February gathering remained a consistent sign of visibility and support for religious brothers whose vocation is often less understood than that of priests.
Brother José Castañeda will assume leadership of the council moving forward.
Why This Gathering Matters
Religious brothers serve the Church in a wide range of ministries such as education, healthcare, administration, social outreach, chaplaincy, and yet their vocation is sometimes overlooked.
“There are not many brothers,” shared Moen. “That’s why it’s so important that we gather to support one another in our vocation and to make our presence visible.”
Brother Larry himself embodies that witness. Inspired by the prayerful dedication of the brothers he encountered, he discerned that he could serve the Church more fully in this capacity. Today, he is hospital chaplain, living out his vocation in direct service to those in need.
The annual Mass and dinner not only strengthens fraternity but also reminds the wider Church of the essential role religious brothers play in the life of any archdiocese.
As vocations to religious brotherhood remain limited, initiatives like this serve as both encouragement and invitation: calling young men to consider a path of consecrated life rooted in service, prayer, and community.
The Claretian Missionaries are proud to have helped start and sustain this enduring tradition. And we remain committed to promoting the vocation of religious brotherhood for future generations.
