Very Rev. Jamin S. David, J.C.L., V.G. | Diocese of Baton Rouge

In a historic moment, the seven dioceses of the state of Louisiana hosted two Hispanic/Latino cultural ministries encounters where they unveiled the new United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ National Pastoral Plan for the Hispanic/Latino Ministry. The meetings were organized by the USCCB’s Southeast Regional Office for Hispanic Ministry (SEPI) and the Hispanic Ministry Office, marking a significant milestone in a collective journey towards fostering collaboration and nurturing a shared vision of a pastoral plan, entitled “Missionary Disciples Going Forth with Joy,” according to Bishop Michael G. Duca.

The plan, which has been several years in the making and is the fruit of the V Encuentro processes, is designed to strengthen Hispanic/Latino ministries over the next ten years. According to Julia Scarnato, director of the Hispanic Apostolate for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, the plan aims to serve all persons regardless of cultural background. She expressed that the plan is so well elaborated that it can be implemented in any culture.

Deacon Alfred Adams, director of the Office of Black Catholics of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, emphasized the importance of ministering to people of different cultures, stating that the Catholic Church is a homeland for all people. He highlighted the need for unity and respect among individuals of diverse backgrounds within the Church.

The pastoral priorities identified in the plan focus on various aspects such as evangelization, faith formation, pastoral accompaniment, youth ministries, immigration advocacy, and more. Scarnato emphasized the importance of the plan in addressing the needs of the Hispanic community, stating, "Louisiana is very welcoming to people of various cultures."

The plan, approved resoundingly by the USCCB, calls for a synodal church that is more welcoming, evangelizing, and missionary at all levels, aiming to build vibrant parish communities with the Hispanic/Latino population. Bishop Duca intends to promulgate the pastoral plan for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, emphasizing the significance of coming together to care for those under their care.

The article reflects the unity and respect advocated by both Scarnato and Deacon Adams, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and embracing the diverse cultural contributions within the Catholic Church.