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Bishop Wolf publishes messages on a regular basis for prayer, reflection or conversation.
Parish Grows by over 150% in five months!!!!
Did you know that our commitment to Hispanic Mission has given birth to a re-newed and exciting ministry?
In October, 2001 the Bishop's Convention Address called for an increase in ministry with Spanish speaking peoples in our diocese. At that time, the immigrant population from Latino countries in Rhode Island stood at 11% of the total population, according to the U.S. census, 1990-2000.
In 2002, I announced that the Hispanic Committee would be re-formed with the intention of calling an Hispanic missioner. In January, 2004, Fr. Jose Roberts, from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, gladly began his ministry.
At that time, he was greeted by approximately 40 members of the Anglo community at St. George's Church, and about 80 at the Spanish speaking Mass.
Today, the Spanish speaking population averages about 200 per week, with the expectation that they will meet their goal of 250 by the end of 2004.
A new site for expanded ministry is being considered at the Church of the Epiphany, Providence. About 35 people joined them for their first liturgy.
The Spanish speaking population is now about 13% of the total.
Is it time for us to be thinking of calling a second Hispanic missioner? I think it is.
Like all missionary projects, development and funding takes time. However, we have an excellent model from which to move ahead. Funding for our first missioner came primarily from Fosterian funds and giving from our parishes and missions through apportionment, for a three year commitment.
Will you and your parishoners commit yourselves to an expansion of this ministry? Sometime in 2005 we should seriously consider if this is the direction in which we want to commit our common resources. How will we respond to the immigrant in our midst. For a people hungry for the gospel, will we provide food enough?
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