NCADDHM Conference in Newark Spotlights Hope and Collaboration in Hispanic Ministry
The National Catholic Association of Diocesan Directors of Hispanic Ministry (NCADDHM) is currently hosting its annual conference in Newark, from October 21 to 24. The event, organized around the five pastoral priorities of the National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry, has sparked reflection and discussion on the state of the migrant community in the United States.
Bishop Mario A. Avilés of Brownsville, Texas, kicked off the conference with a Mass homily emphasizing the need for hope. This sentiment was echoed throughout the conference, with Bishop Avilés stressing the importance of moving hope forward through prayer, collaboration, and initiatives in Hispanic ministry.
Alejandro Aguilera-Titus, assistant director of the Subcommittee on Hispanic Affairs, shared insights from a meeting with Pope Francis, highlighting the challenges faced by the Hispanic community. Bishop Manuel A. Cruz of Newark spoke about the Hispanic community's love for priests and nuns and their role in the church, prompting deep reflection on the migrant community's situation. Aguilera-Titus urged Hispanic leaders to assume their prophetic role, walk in synodality, and be signs of faith and hope.
The conference, with no specific details about a meeting in New York in October 2023, focuses on key areas including young adults and campus ministry, family life, formation and evangelization, social justice and migration, and vocations.
The NCADDHM's annual conference in Newark has brought together Hispanic ministry directors to discuss the state of the migrant community and plan for the future. With a focus on hope, collaboration, and the five pastoral priorities, the conference aims to strengthen the Hispanic community's role in the church and address the challenges they face.
