Bishop Loverde Hears Latino Concerns

By Alfonso Aguilar
HERALD Staff Writer
(From the issue of 10/10/02)

More than 100 Latino members of various diocesan parishes met with Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde Oct. 5 to express their concerns and find solutions to their needs.

The diminishing number of Hispanic priests and resistance against establishing more Masses in Spanish were two critical subjects of discussion. The possibility of an auxiliary bishop of Hispanic descent was a frequent request.

"Our diocese is the seventh fastest-growing in the country and has a very international character," said Bishop Loverde, speaking in Spanish.

"I know that some are afraid of the unknown and that Hispanics have not always been welcome," the bishop added during the meeting held at the Spanish Apostolate last Saturday.

Father Ovidio Pecharromán, director of the Spanish Apostolate, said that the bishop has been receiving many letters from Latino parishioners expressing their concerns and frustrations.

"For this reason I am here to listen to your concerns and work together to find solutions," the bishop said to warm applause.

"We are one church and many cultures, we are working for the full integration of all parishioners," he said in response to those who expressed a feeling of marginalization.

The diocese has 354,000 registered parishioners. According to the Spanish Apostolate, approximately 300,000 Catholic Hispanics now live in the diocese, which includes 21 counties and seven cities in Northern Virginia. It is estimated that only 2 percent of Hispanics are registered, while 6 percent attend Mass.

"The fast growth has brought new challenges," said Bishop Loverde, indicating his willingness to meet with Hispanics in the diocese.

Currently there are 130 active diocesan priests, four of whom are Hispanic. Between 20 and 25 non-Hispanic priests speak Spanish. Of the 70 parishes and missions, 26 have Masses in Spanish.

During the meeting it was announced that priests from Spain, Mexico, South and Central America will join the diocese. In addition, the diaconate program could be re-established soon.

Another solution, the bishop said, is that all diocesan seminarians are taking Spanish classes and some active priests have been sent to Mexico to learn Spanish.

"And don’t forget that from your own families we need more vocations," the bishop emphasized.

A second meeting will include Father Mark S. Mealey, episcopal vicar for pastoral services, Father Ovidio Pecharromán, the bishop and those who wrote letters of concern.

"In a very Christian and gentle fashion we presented our serious concerns to the bishop," said Deacon Claudio F. Benedí.

"We are sure the bishop will guide us in the right direction," said Deacon Benedí, one of four Hispanic deacons in the diocese.

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