Office of Hispanic Ministry

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"We speak to the peoples of the United States and Mexico. Our two nations are more interdependent than ever before in history… Our nations have a singular opportunity to act as true neighbors and to work together to build a more just and generous immigration system."
- Catholic Bishops of Mexico and the United States 1/2003

"At this moment of grace we recognize the Hispanic community among us as a blessing from God"
- U. S. Bishops, 1987

The Diocese of Belleville continues to respond to this 'blessing from God' among us in Southern Illinois. Here in the 28 southern counties of the state more than 13,500 Hispanics are 'at home' and more will join us in the near future. This opportunity to invite our Hispanic sisters and brothers to full participation in the Catholic Church calls us to new models of welcoming, listening and loving.

It will require from some of us a conversion of heart and real efforts to a holier communion with those who bring the gifts of another culture. More than 78% of all Hispanics are baptized Catholic and are, therefore, a vital part of our diocesan church as they share their culture, faith and gifts with the diocesan family.

Hispanic Ministry In Our Diocese Includes

• Regular sacramental ministry, catechesis and Mass in Spanish at Cobden, Carbondale, and Fairmont City
• Mass in Spanish in Damiansville and Cahokia from May - November
• Seasonal pastoral outreach and sacramental preparation for Hispanic adults who are migrant or who work in rural areas (made possible through the ministry of Fr. James Jeffrey)
• Annual Diocesan Hispanic Youth Day, a gathering for affirming faith and building community among Hispanic teenagers
• North Central Deanery Welcoming Team, a pilot approach begun in April of 2003, for inviting all newcomers and incorporating Hispanics in this regional effort of expressing the care and hospitality of the parishes through a home visit.
• An advocacy network for informing and addressing legislative issues that impact Hispanics in our diocese
• An annual convocation for shaping the direction of Hispanic Ministry, and further presentations to boards and reflection groups

'Thinking sessions' at the Pastoral Center with agencies and outreach groups for potential collaboration of services on behalf of Hispanics in Southern Illinois.

For more information, contact

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