[The Episcopal News] Congregations considering launching or expanding ministry to Latino members of their communities are invited to join the Program Group on Hispanic Ministries and the Rev. Canon Anthony Guillen, The Episcopal Church’s missioner for Latino Ministries, for New Camino, a two-day in-person seminar with a fresh take on Latino/Hispanic ministries.
New Camino, to be held Friday and Saturday, March 22 – 23 at St. Paul’s Commons in Los Angeles, “is all about reimagining and revitalizing Latino/Hispanic ministries,” according to the seminar announcement. “Come and be a part of this transformative journey, exploring new ways to serve communities in our diocese.”
Participants will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about Latino/Hispanic ministries. Through engaging workshops, inspiring speakers, and interactive sessions conducted in English, attendees will delve into innovative approaches and fresh perspectives and together forge a new path forward.
“Whether you’re a church leader, a volunteer, or simply interested in learning more, this event is for you!” says the announcement. “Discover practical strategies, gain valuable insights, and build meaningful connections. Let’s come together and create a stronger, more inclusive future for Latino/Hispanic ministries.”
In addition to Guillen, presenters for the seminar will include the Rev. Al Rodriguez, Latino cross-cultural advisor for the Diocese of Texas; and the Rev. Mike Michie, rector of St. Thomas Episcopal Church and School in San Antonio, Texas. Other presenters and the seminar schedule will be announced as plans are finalized.
“Our amazingly diverse diocese is an international crossroads, a home for neighbors from everywhere,” Bishop John Harvey Taylor of the Diocese of Los Angeles told The Episcopal News. “Many of our missions and parishes offer worship in languages other than English. Their members’ children and grandchildren often grow up speaking English while honoring the cultures and traditions they’ve inherited. In the years ahead, our congregations have a responsibility and a rich opportunity to serve these individuals and families. We don’t have to speak their parents’ and grandparents’ languages to offer culturally competent and resonant worship and programming. This is the genius of New Camino, and we’re delighted that, thanks to Canon Guillen and his colleagues, the road has led to Los Angeles.”
Participants may stay at the St. Paul’s Commons retreat center, or commute. Seminar cost with lodging (register here) is $300 (plus a nonrefundable $21.96 registration fee). For commuters (register here), cost is $160 (plus $12.57 registration fee). Both tickets include the program and three meals (dinner on March 22 and breakfast and lunch on March 23).
Questions may be directed to delaministeriohispano@gmail.com.