We welcome you to the webpage of Our Lady’s Desert Roses Chapter of Magnificat in Palm Desert, California. These are exciting times that we live in and Magnificat was begun in 1981 for such as time as this. There are now over 100 chapters throughout the United States and its territories and in many foreign countries. Our Lady’s Desert Roses Chapter also has a website at www.magnificatpalmdesert.net.

Magnificat Meal

Hosted by Our Lady’s Desert Roses Chapter

Saturday, December 12, 2026

Buffet Prayer Meal
9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location:
Woodhaven Country Club
41555 Woodhaven Drive, East
Palm Desert, CA 92211

About Our Speaker: Jesus Mercado

A Lifelong “Yes” to Mary Responding to God’s Call

When Deacon Jesus Mercado was five years old, his father brought him to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Seeing the Tilma made a powerful impression on him and became the first thread in a lifelong connection to the Blessed Mother.

As a young boy, Deacon would line up his Saint cards by his bed like old friends. He also felt Mary’s peaceful presence sitting behind him in church. Deacon soon developed a special devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows and Saint Michael. He met Pope John Paul II at age ten and as an adult he was entrusted with a chalice blessed by him.

Today, Deacon Jesus serves as a deacon at Sacred Heart Church. He is completing his master’s degree in theology at St. Mary of the Lake in Chicago and will graduate in May 2028. Deacon also works as a hospice chaplain and leads the community in consecrations to Mary.

For Deacon Jesus, conversion is a daily event—a choice to carry the cross, help others, and walk alongside the dying as they meet Christ. He is a loving husband, father, and grandfather whose life bears witness to a quiet, steady faith—one that continues to flourish each day.

Join us to learn how Deacon Jesus bears daily witness to a lifelong journey of faith.

Personal Prayer ministry is available after the meal.

Religious books are available at the meal.
Since the day is designed to speak to the hearts of women, free of distractions, it is respectfully requested that young children not be in attendance.

Tickets & Reservations

Cost is $35 per person if received by 12/5/2026.

After 12/5/2026 cost is $40 per person. After 12/5/2026, contact Louise Erickson at 760-702-0068 or email Louise at louise.erickson54@gmail.com to make reservations.

MAIL-IN RESERVATIONS

Click on and mail Reservation Form (include the names and phone numbers of other ticket holders in your group) and check for $35 per person to:

Magnificat
42-215 Washington St., Ste. A #403
Palm Desert, CA  92211

RESERVATIONS FOR DECEMBER 12, 2026:

Deacon Jesus Mercado 12 12 26 Final

For questions or reservations call Louise Erickson at 760-702-0068.

• Your check will serve as your receipt.
• Your name tag serves as your ticket and it will be available at the door.
• Open seating. Plan to arrive about 8:30 am.
• Self-parking is available @ No Cost.
• Diocesan Approval by Bishop Alberto Rojas
• Spiritual Director:  Fr. Michael Barry, SS.CC.

Future Meal Dates for Our Chapter:

March 13, 2027

June 5, 2027

September 11, 2027

December 11, 2027

Rosary Blanket of Prayer

Remember our chapter’s commitment to Eucharistic Adoration and to pray the Rosary on the 10th of each month for the intentions of Magnificat, Sanctity of Life, Marriage and Family, and World Peace.

Service Team Members

Noreen Fortier, Coordinator
Louise Erickson, Assistant Coordinator
Maryann Spencer, Assistant Coordinator
Gina Tleel, Treasurer
Christina Silvas, Service Team Member
Father Mike Barry, SS.CC., Spiritual Advisor

If you would like to help with a Ministry of Magnificat, or if you have a question or comment for our Service Team, or if you would like to be on our Mailing list for future events, please contact us at MagnificatPD@aol.com or visit our website at www.magnificatpalmdesert.net.

History of Our Lady’s Desert Roses Chapter

(Mother Chapter for the Diocese of San Bernardino)

On the Feast of the Visitation, May 31, 2003, five women gathered together to pray and discern the possibility of establishing a chapter of Magnificat in the Diocese of San Bernardino. Those in attendance sensed the Lord was placing this ministry upon their hearts. Although no public advertisements were made, the Lord continued  to expand what would soon become the chapter’s first Advisory Team. This group continued to meet as women were personally invited to join the discernment efforts. Before long, close to fifty women were meeting monthly at the home of Donna Ross for praise, prayer, discernment and fellowship. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and the spiritual direction of Fr. Mike Barry, SS.CC., the women continued to pray, fast and sacrifice for the establishment of this beautiful ministry. On June 3, 2005, Our Lady’s Desert Roses received formal approval from Bishop Gerald Barnes. On Saturday morning, October 15, 2005, the first Meal was held at the Desert Springs Marriott with over 500 women in attendance! Praise God!