Guest Columnist
Raquel Juárez

A few days before the celebration of the Hispanic Heritage Mass, I would like to share some thoughts with you, the faithful readers of the CS&T.

As with any event that needs to be planned and organized, the arrangements for this Mass are coordinated and directed by a committee of approximately 20 members, the Hispanic Heritage Mass Committee. This group is spanided in four subcommittees: publicity, music, procession and reception.

I can say with certainty that one of the most admirable things about this committee is that each one of its members brings boundless energy and optimism to achieving the community’s goals. The planning for the Mass begins in April and then continues throughout the year, with at least six more meetings of the full committee.

Since I attend each meeting I can testify to the interest and dedication of all the members of the group. They have the sincere desire to offer the best of themselves in service to the faith. At these meetings I have had the opportunity to confirm that the mission of the team is one of unification and of demonstrating the spanersity of cultures in our communities. What better way to demonstrate this than with praises to the Lord in a Mass that commemorates our Hispanic Heritage!

Devotion, faith and love are visible gifts that identify all volunteers in the committee. They are gifts that the group generously puts into practice so that the Hispanic Heritage Mass can leave a deep and indelible mark in all of our hearts.

On behalf of the Office of the Vicar for Hispanic Catholics, many thanks to the Hispanic Heritage Mass Committee.

Raquel Juárez is secretary to the Vicar of Hispanic Catholics of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.