Mass celebrates Hispanic heritage, contributions to Diocese

An atmosphere of joy and reverence filled the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi as parishioners of all ages from the Diocese’s Latino communities gathered for the annual Hispanic Heritage Mass and celebration.

Many congregants dressed in traditional attire. Before the Oct. 11 Mass, members of the Charismatic Renewal movement led a procession through the cathedral, carrying images of Mary that honor various Marian devotions throughout the Americas. Father Gustavo Rodríguez-Perez, coordinator of the diocese’s Hispanic lay formation, guided the recitation of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

Bishop James F. Checchio, principal celebrant, welcomed everyone to the cathedral and expressed his appreciation for the presence and contribution of the Hispanic community to the Diocese. He reminded attendees that they were called to grow together as one people of the Lord, united in fruitful faith.

The Mass celebrated “the invaluable contributions of Hispanics to this country: their traditions, history, art, and many other cultural expressions that have enriched it,” Father Gustavo Amell, a Colombian member of the Missionaries Servants of the Most Holy Trinity, said in his homily. Father Amell is part of the pastoral team at the Shrine of St. Joseph in Stirling and teaches in the Metuchen Diocese’s Hispanic Bible School.

“As a deeply religious Hispanic community, we also cherish the legacy of our faith,” Father Amell said. “This is a living and vibrant faith that has been passed down from generation to generation, bringing us closer to God and uniting us as one people. We are a people of faith, recognizing the Lord as our shepherd ... who has never abandoned us, who cares for us, strengthens us, and protects us. Indeed, this is reason enough to bless and praise the Lord! The Hispanic people are also a people who love God and feel His love in return.”

Referring to the Gospel, Father Amell highlighted Peter’s journey from denial and isolation to reconciliation and identity. He related this experience to many newcomers who may feel uprooted and disconnected in a new land and assured the congregation that encountering the Lord brings healing, love, and restoration. He also invited them to rejoice in their shared faith and in their spiritual heritage that he said continues to strengthen and unite them.

Willys and Ana Cabas, a married couple for 26 years and parents of three children, presented the Offertory gifts. The Cabas family belongs to St. John the Baptist Parish, New Brunswick. Together, they emphasized that moments like the Offertory procession enrich their lives, reminding them of God’s presence in a world that often overlooks the beauty of feeling loved. 

Bishop Checchio concluded the celebration with a blessing for the community, thanking Deacon Edgard Chaves and the Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry for their work in organizing the event. Deacon Chaves thanked Bishop Checchio for presiding, noting his presence reflects God’s love and underscores the Diocese’s commitment to support and accompany the Hispanic community.

Deacon Chaves expressed his appreciation for Father Jonathan S. Toborowsky, vicar general of the Diocese, and Father Timothy Christy, rector of the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, for their ongoing support of the Hispanic community. He recognized all the priests and deacons who serve the Hispanic community, as well as Hispanic leaders, parish representatives, the choir, and the Charismatic Renewal movement. He thanked all those present for their expressions of gratitude for the many blessings in their lives.

At the end of the Mass, everyone was invited to a reception with traditional dances from the Americas. The community enjoyed appetizers and performances that included a Colombian dance, a Guatemalan folk group, and the “A lo Tico” Group. Each presentation highlighted the cultural heritage of the Hispanic community.