On Divine Mercy Sunday last month, Bishop Dennis Sullivan recorded a message for Hispanic Catholics in South Jersey, telling them to “keep the faith and encourage our children and families to do likewise” during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The heartfelt message came at a moment when Hispanics are dealing with challenges in common with the entire population and unique to them.
The rising unemployment due to the government-mandated shutdowns has made hundreds of thousands across the United States eligible for unemployment benefits. But undocumented immigrants, from Latin America or any other countries, will not see these benefits, or the stimulus payments from the federal government.
As well, the need to provide for their now-at-home children and spouses keeps many working in the fruit fields, in the grocery stores, in hospitals and at their landscaping jobs, despite the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
“My heart goes out to them; this situation has taken a toll on families,” says Claudia Trani-Melgar, Communications and Outreach Coordinator/Coordinator of Hispanic Ministry at Gibbtown’s Saint Clare of Assisi Parish, who works with the 300 registered Hispanic families in her community.
“They’ve told me stories about catching COVID-19 on the job, being sick and having to stay home, with children in the house,” she says.
She is currently working to share information related to the virus and the concerns it has caused with the Hispanic community, translating from the English language documents pertaining to general health and safety, worker’s rights and health insurance. There are other hurdles, Trani-Malgar says.
“The undocumented are afraid to share any personal information for fear of it getting into the hands of immigration services,” she explains.
As well, “they worry about their families in other countries,” says Andres Arango, Bishop’s Delegate for Hispanic Ministry and Diocesan Director of Evangelization.
His office has created a video series on specific topics to serve the Hispanic community, including the current “Camino a Pentecostés” series (“Road to Pentecost), which brings formation, motivation and spiritual encouragement into Hispanic households.
One thing that has remained unchanged: Hispanic Catholics have found a sense of solace and support in their faith community.
“There’s a lot of challenges right now, but they are grateful to be accompanied on this journey,” says Father Rene Canales, Vicar for Hispanics, Black Horse Pkke Ministry, Our Lady of Hope Parish, Blackwood.
In addition to providing spiritual encouragement, he has aimed to provide a sense of normalcy to his people, including monthly marriage prep video meetings.
“This community is used to celebrating their faith together, and now they’re separate. But we tell them to keep praying; when this storm passes, we’ll be together again.”
The strong connection between Hispanic Catholics and their parish priests is evidenced by their concern for their shepherds. On both sides, family misses family. “They look up to us and worry about our well-being,” Father Canales says.
To access the “Road to Pentecost” series and other videos, visit and like the Facebook page: Ministerio Hispano de la Diocesis de Camden (@MinisterioHispanoDOC)
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