Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

On Sept. 14, 141 Hispanic leaders across the archdiocese gathered at St. Edward Church’s gymnasium to receive training on the National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic and Latino Ministry, titled “Missionary Disciples Going Forth with Joy.”

The event aimed to assist leaders from various areas of Hispanic ministry — including youth ministry, catechesis, liturgical ministry, and hospitality ministry — in examining the current state of Hispanic ministry within their parishes. Eva Gonzalez, director of the Archdiocese of Louisville’s Office of Hispanic Ministry, noted this focus.

The training provided an overview of the pastoral plan, emphasizing the present situation of Hispanic/Latino ministry, identified priorities, pastoral guidelines, objectives, and approaches to ministry. Approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), the plan serves as a pastoral guide for Hispanic ministry with a "strong focus on evangelization and the formation of missionary disciples," according to its document.

The plan encourages dioceses to regularly meet with parish leaders to "consider the local reality and resources available" and then "discern the steps the diocese needs to take to continually improve and expand Hispanic/Latino Ministry."

Andrea Flores, a parishioner at St. Edward Church, stated that understanding what materials are available is crucial for parish leaders.

Resources from the USCCB were utilized during the training, including videos and discussion questions for small group sessions. Participants considered questions such as: “Do the people you serve have opportunities for a personal encounter with Christ?” and “Are sacramental preparation, faith formation and other programs offered in multiple languages to accommodate diverse participants?”

Maria Castaneda, coordinator of Hispanic ministry at St. Peter the Apostle Church who attended the event, expressed that many needs exist within her parish and believes that diocesan support will help address these needs. She remarked that the plan gives her "an idea of where to start."

Gonzalez also used this opportunity to listen to parish leaders' insights since they know their communities better than she does. She mentioned that the pastoral plan results from Encuentro gatherings held over a decade and reflects that bishops have heard the Hispanic community's voice.

She emphasized that parish leaders must feel heard at the local level as well. Gonzalez plans to share participants' feedback with pastors and archdiocesan offices.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre concluded the training session by celebrating a bilingual vigil Mass.

Participating parishes included Annunciation in Shelbyville; Immaculate Conception in La Grange; Christ the King in Tompkinsville; and St. Rita, St. Edward, Epiphany, Holy Name, St. Peter the Apostle, and St. Joseph.

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