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Boosting Hispanic Leadership in the Catholic Church: Historic National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry


The US Conference of Catholic Bishops has overwhelming approved a groundbreaking National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry (NPPHM). The plan aims to strengthen the ministry of nearly 30 million Hispanic Catholics in the US, who have been growing in number in recent years. It envisions a synodal church that welcomes, evangelizes, and is missionary at all levels. The plan seeks to increase Hispanic Catholic leaders' representation among bishops, priests, religious men and women, deacons, and other leaders, inspiring a new generation of leaders and revitalizing the Church in the United States.


The plan outlines ten pastoral priorities that will guide the implementation of its vision and mission:

1. Evangelization and Mission

This priority calls for creative and culturally relevant approaches to evangelization, utilizing the unique gifts and traditions of the Hispanic culture.


2. Faith Formation and Catechesis

The plan emphasizes the need for comprehensive and culturally sensitive formation programs that address the specific needs and challenges faced by this community.


3. Pastoral Accompaniment of Hispanic Families

This priority emphasizes the need for pastoral care that addresses the unique experiences and challenges faced by Hispanic families, such as immigration issues, economic hardships, and cultural transitions.


4. Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Recognizing the significant presence of Hispanic youth and young adults in the Church, this priority calls for the development of youth and young adult ministries that provide relevant and inspiring opportunities for spiritual growth and leadership development.


5. Immigration and Advocacy

The plan highlights the Church's commitment to advocating for just and compassionate immigration policies and supporting those affected by immigration issues. It recognizes the importance of walking with and providing pastoral care for immigrants, refugees, and their families, offering them a sense of welcome, dignity, and hope.


6. Formation for Ministry in a Culturally Diverse Church

To ensure the effective integration and inclusion of Hispanic Catholics in the life of the Church, this priority emphasizes the need for intercultural competence among church leaders. It calls for ongoing formation and training that equips pastors, staff, and volunteers to effectively communicate, work, and relate with people from different cultures.


7. Pastoral Care for Those in the Periphery

This priority emphasizes pastoral care that addresses the spiritual, emotional, and material needs of those on the margins, including the poor, the disregarded, and those affected by violence and injustice.


8. Liturgy and Spirituality

This priority emphasizes incorporating Hispanic Catholic traditions and spirituality into Church liturgical life through culturally sensitive practices, the development of culturally sensitive liturgies, devotions, and prayer experiences that resonate with the Hispanic community.


9. Promotion of Vocations

The plan acknowledges the need for a greater presence of Hispanic priests, religious men and women, and deacons in the United States. It calls for intentional efforts to promote vocations among Hispanic youth and young adults, fostering a culture of discernment and support within the community.


10. Catholic Education

Recognizing the vital role of education in transmitting the faith to future generations, this priority emphasizes the importance of Catholic schools in serving Hispanic students. The plan encourages the enrollment and graduation of Hispanic students in Catholic schools, promoting accessibility and fostering a welcoming environment for Hispanic families.


Implementation and Engagement

The success of the National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry relies on active participation and collaboration of church leaders and communities. Our Office of Hispanic Ministry will be holding workshops and events to help explain and implement the plan in our diocese. Collaboration from pastors and parishioners is crucial for shaping the next ten years of ministry with Hispanics.


Originally published in The Catholic Key Magazine

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About Me

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Leyden is a highly sought-after
motivational Catholic speaker with 15+years of combined experience as a ministry leader, trainer, and diocesan leader.

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Leyden works with parish groups,
individuals, and organizations to
seeking to activate disciples, form leaders, and have intentional conversations which lead to Jesus.

 

She also serves as Director of Hispanic Ministry with the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

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