Encuentro 2006
Hispanic
youth weave the future together
The process for the First
National Encuentro for Hispanic Youth and Young Adult
Ministry has been an exciting one here in the Diocese of New Ulm. Six parishes
participated by using the biblical image of the fisherman’s net as its
spiritual and pastoral motivation. The process inspired the participation of
over 55 Hispanic youth from Catholic parishes in Glencoe,
After having participated at
the local level, 24 young people attended the regional Encuentro
on April 29th at
The process was an excellent
way to hear the voice of the Hispanic youth and young adults. Several important
conclusions were reached at the regional level. The two top needs that were
identified by the youth are the need for spiritual support and the need to have
youth ministry that includes the Hispanic youth. When identifying their common
vision, Hispanic youth first claim Christ as their center. Secondly they express
their deep desire to maintain their values of faith, family, culture and
hospitality. They acknowledge that as young adults and youth in today’s
society, they need to integrate their life and their faith. A deep desire to have a personal encounter
with Jesus Christ was expressed by the youth.
They recognize that they are from a culture that has a powerful
spirituality and that they are strong in their faith. It is their aspiration to share that faith in
the Church and be of service to others.
The National Encuentro will take place