V Encuentro Proceedings and Conclusions

Proceedings and Conclusions of the V National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry | 33 SUMMARY OF OPENING REMARKS, HOMILY, AND KEYNOTES The complete texts of the prepared remarks spoken from the main stage are available for download on the V Encuentro website, and many of them can be viewed in video format as well. Summaries are provided here, highlighting a couple of memorable phrases from each presentation. Opening Remarks – Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston Cardinal DiNardo shared his observations on the long but fruitful path that led up to this gath- ering by thanking all those who have participated in this process. The voices of so many com- munities were represented at the local and regional gatherings and have come together for this occasion. Therefore, this Encuentro is truly an invitation to come face to face with the people of God for in every encounter the people testify and give life to the Gospel message. Cardinal DiNardo went on to address the sexual abuse and misconduct plaguing our Church today. This painful reality is not alien to this national gathering. Rather, it is in the midst of this pain and darkness that the V Encuentro takes shape and illuminates the way forward. Cardinal DiNardo referred to the V Encuentro process as a hallmark of deep pride for the Church. “The Encuentro has been a provocation for us to go face to face with people and bring to life the truth, the beauty, and the radiance of the Gospel.” “Amidst this darkness, the Encuentro is a light that shines and illuminates the way forward. The enthusiasm, the passion, the love, and the joy of the Encuentro process is a means of grace, a gift to us as we rebuild the Church.” Thursday Evening Prayer Homily – Most Rev. Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S., Archbishop of San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo Garcia invited everyone to take full advantage the opportunities at the V Encuentro . The flames of the Holy Spirit allow attendees to enlighten the Catholic Church by taking initiative and promoting more encounters in dioceses, parishes, schools and movements. While the Archbishop recognized the pain generated by the latest news of abuses by certain pastors, he also invited those present not to remain quiet in the face of pain. With the consolation of the love of Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit is invoked in this dark and sad moment. Drawing from the Book of Revelation, he invited the assembly to love—not to focus on obstacles but to give their lives for the risen Lord and for the kingdom. Asking for the grace to find the Lord Jesus in the Encuentro process places us on the same journey as those on the road to Emmaus whose hearts were burning with the love of Christ. Taking the First Step