Hispanic priests meet with Bishop to discuss best practices in ministry

More than a dozen Hispanic priests from across the Diocese of Trenton met Nov. 8 in the Chancery, Lawrenceville, to discuss their ministry and to consider other areas of concern as the Diocese continues to implement its “Plan for Hispanic Ministry,” which the priest group developed three years ago. 

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., spoke with the priests about the importance of fostering priestly vocations within Hispanic Catholic families and parishes. The Bishop also encouraged those present to take the initiative primarily with U.S.-born Hispanic populations, since demographic studies indicate that two-thirds of Hispanic Catholics were born in the United States. 

The rationale for Centers of Hispanic Ministry as outlined by the Faith in Our Future initiative also was discussed. The Bishop urged the Hispanic priests present to continue meeting together to develop and present ideas that best serve Hispanic families in the parishes. 

Under the leadership of Father Rene Pulgarin, pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Keyport, and diocesan liaison for Hispanic and Portuguese Ministry, the priests considered an ambitious agenda, focused on supporting one another and their people in the process of evangelization and renewal.  Terry Ginther, diocesan Chancellor and executive director of Pastoral Life and Mission, also participated in the gathering.

(Caption: Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., joined many of the Hispanic priests of the Diocese in their periodic meeting to discuss the needs of the Hispanic community and how to best respond at the parish level. Matthew Greeley photo)