First service for Bishop Richard Garcia of Monterey Diocese

The first of many gatherings Monday honoring the late Bishop Richard Garcia. The bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Monterey died Wednesday.

Three gatherings are leading up to his funeral mass on Thursday.

Catholic parishioners throughout the Central Coast are remembering a man they say had a huge impact on his community.

“The viewing began at 2 o’clock today and there was already hundreds of people gathered at the front door,” said Erika Yanez, director of media relations and communications with the Diocese of Monterey.

One of those people, Monterey resident and long time parishioner Juliet Honeywell who remembers when Garcia became the bishop here on the Central Coast.

“He was excited to be here, he was looking forward to have a family here and he did actually,” Honeywell said.

Church staff say Juliet is one of thousands showing up to pay their respects.

“The outpouring of support has just been felt throughout the diocese,” Yanez said, “The amount of people that are coming out and just giving their time just in support of all of us here in the community that are feeling this loss.”

Services are planned throughout the week to let the more than 200,000 Central Coast Catholics and even out of town parishioners say goodbye.

“We’re encouraging folks to find one of the ceremonies to participate in to pay their respects,” said Rico Tesio with the Knights of Columbus, “We are anticipating large crowds on Thursday for the funeral mass so what we would like folks to do is find one way to celebrate Bishop Garcia this week.”

Though the loss is felt deeply throughout the Central Coast community. Many are choosing to reflect on what has been gained since Bishop Garcia became part of it.

“He will live forever in our hearts,” Honeywell said.

Services are planned throughout the week, carpooling is encouraged. For a list of the full services, parking and shuttle information click here.