2010
Leigh Farley Waggoner
Latino Ministry In the Episcopal Church: Who Are We?
The Episcopal Church has had Latino ministry for over forty years. Despite this tenure, we have little knowledge of who the people in the pews are, why they are there, who their leaders are, and what is contributing to the increase among those congregations that are growing. As we enter the 21st Century this study opens a window onto these Episcopal Latino congregations. This study considered four markers (Spanish language, Latino clergy, Latino congregants, and elements of popular religion) as it sampled leaders of sixty Episcopal Latino congregations. To delve deeper, an additional sampling of the leaders from among those congregations that are stable or growing received further inquiry. Elements that might contribute to congregational vitality, their current needs, and how the congregations relate to their dioceses and other parishes were also considered. Throughout this study and subsequent analysis, several questions were raised. With further attention to these issues, answers can be found. Those answers will help the Episcopal Church move faithfully into our future – a future in which, God willing, we will be more fully one with our Hispanic sisters and brothers.