V Encuentro Proceedings and Conclusions

156 | Proceedings and Conclusions of the V National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry “God’s providence has wanted this Encuentro to be a Kairos, a strong outpouring of God’s Spirit, with abundant graces and gifts for the common good of all the Church in the U.S. during these times of distress... a soothing balm for its wounds, a caress from God.” “It is remarkable to me that this event did not become a niche market for expressing only Hispanics’ popular religiosity. On the contrary, in this Encuentro Hispanics have become stewards of Catholicism for all North America, and of the life and destiny of the Church in this country, by offering it a vital and indispensable contribution.” Keynote: Celebrating Every Step of the Way – CELAM Representative Most Rev. Constantino Barrera, Bishop of Sonsonate, El Salvador As a representative of the bishops in Latin America (CELAM), Bishop Barrera expressed his grat- itude to Hispanic ministry in the U.S., and the joy of participating in the Encuentro. He acknowl- edged the strength and energy of Hispanic ministry as a sign of hope for the Church in the United States. The presence of so many bishops and priests is also a testimony to the strength and energy that was evident in the gathering. The format of the Encuentro is in line with the documents of Aparecida, Evangelii Gaudium, Amoris Laetitia, and with the initiative to include young people in the process of empowering and energizing the Church. Finally, he reminded us about the canonization of Archbishop Óscar Romero and his commitment to justice, peace, freedom, and love for the kingdom of God. “I see a stronger ministry, more energized, with great hope to continue developing this effort, so the work of Hispanics in the Church can become more concrete.” “I also see in the development of this Encuentro , which is a true encounter, the connection with the pastoral approach of Aparecida, and in a special way I perceive the pastoral guidelines of Pope Francis in important documents such as Evangelii Gaudium and Amoris Laetitia .” Closing Remarks – Most Rev. Gerald Barnes, Bishop of San Bernardino Bishop Barnes began his remarks by thanking all the delegates from the Hispanic community for participating in the Encuentro. In his message, he encouraged them to move beyond the pain, suffering, and scandals affecting the Church. We need to go beyond the fear by working together and accepting our faults. Bishop Barnes sees a Hispanic leadership that is committed and ready to lead, but in order to strengthen that leadership, all bishops need to provide financial support and put Hispanics in lead- ership positions in their dioceses. He recognized the importance of giving priority to our youth Rejoicing