V Encuentro Proceedings and Conclusions

158 | Proceedings and Conclusions of the V National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry Sunday Closing Mass Homily – Most Rev. José Gómez, Archbishop of Los Angeles In the closing Mass, Archbishop Gómez reminded us that the Encuentro is about our identity and missionary responsibility as Latino Catholics within the U.S. context. Our responsibility is to help build the kingdom of God, to collaborate as disciples, and to become part of the his- tory of salvation. We are connected to the mission the Virgin of Guadalupe entrusted to San Juan Diego since the beginning of the Spanish conquest of the New World. We continue San Juan Diego’s mission through our ministries not only in the United States, but also in the whole continent. We are called to lead by our holiness, as servants, following the example of Jesus Christ; not fol- lowing a desire for power, recognition, or to occupy a higher position in the Church. Following the example of Archbishop Romero, who will be canonized soon, we need to identify where our place in history is, and what God is asking me to do during these times of conflict and trial in our Church and in our society. Archbishop Gómez asked us to be healers and heroes in times where it is really needed. “In the spirit of Saint Juan Diego, I believe our Lord is calling each of you to ‘go to the bishops.’ He is calling the lay faithful to work together with the bishops to renew and rebuild his Church.” “Our Lord is calling each of you to listen for his voice; to seek his will for your lives; to take your place in the history of salvation; and to do your part for the mission of the Church.” Rejoicing