Broad Ministry of Jaime Soto

In more than a decade as the Roman Catholic church’s vicar to the Latino community in Orange County, Jaime Soto proved himself a tireless advocate on a wide range of issues. Last week the church elevated him to the rank of auxiliary bishop, the second-ranking priest in the Diocese of Orange.

The church estimates the Catholic population of the county at 1 million, with nearly half Latinos. Soto, raised in Stanton and a graduate of Mater Dei High School, has been a beacon for the community.

But he also has used his high profile to campaign for causes outside his faith, tending to the material needs of the county as well as the spiritual.

One of his main concerns has been the less well-off in this affluent county. He has cautioned against reducing government help for those needing it, be it food stamps or welfare payments. He has campaigned for paying a living wage for those willing and able to work. He has warned against the increasing disparity between the wealthy and those scrambling for bottom rungs on the economic ladder.

His thoughts on the relationship between government and those it serves have been tempered and reasonable. He has cited the need for a safety net and affirmed that the fundamental social and moral compact is between the men and women of all communities, regardless of wealth or standing.

Soto also has reached out to members of other faiths. He has assisted with the first two Jewish-Latino Passover Seders in the county. He has cooperated with congregations of different religions to organize a street fair on Minnie Street in Santa Ana, trying to overcome the ravages of crime.

Not long ago, Soto brought together Santa Ana parents with city officials and the school superintendent to foster a dialogue to improve education, recognizing its importance in helping immigrants and their children better themselves. He has been a staunch defender of immigrants, recognizing their work ethic and their benefit to Orange County. His voice is an important one, and his new status can allow him to play an even wider role in the life of the county.