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Hispanic Marriage Preparation Ministry: Building A Grace-Filled Life Together
In our parish family, we welcome our Hispanic couples and families with open hearts and strive to bring them the grace and mercy of God however we can.
“Many Hispanics come to this country and they have their Catholic faith, but they don’t necessarily understand it,” says Yonis Martinez, who coordinates the Hispanic Marriage Preparation Ministry. “They don’t really comprehend what the Mass or the sacraments are. Too often, they are badly influenced by their work environment and don’t regularly go to church. I want to help them learn more about their Catholic faith, and help save their families. That is why I lead Bible studies — to help them grow closer to God.”
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Currently, St. Joseph’s offers many opportunities to help Spanish-speaking engaged couples and families to live a grace-filled life. Spanish Bible study classes take place each Tuesday evening, along with the praying of the Rosary. There is also Eucharistic Adoration offered regularly to help our English and Spanish-speaking parishioners draw near to Our Lord and receive His peace.
Hispanic Marriage Preparation classes are offered one Sunday evening per month, each year from January through June. These inspiring and enriching classes cover various monthly themes, such as communication; resolving conflicts; the identity of the Catholic family; sexuality and Natural Family Planning; the Sacrament of Marriage; and the Sacrament of Confession.
“I really enjoy putting on this program for our Hispanic families because I want to bring them closer to Christ, and help them understand what our Catholic faith is all about,” Yonis says. “During the classes, we talk about Catholic family traditions, as well as the characteristics of a true Catholic family. For example, we highlight the importance of Lenten fasting, praying the family Rosary, reading the Bible, and going to Mass and Confession regularly.”
Ultimately, the Marriage Preparation program provides a wonderful way to help couples prepare to unite their bodies, minds, and souls in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. The program prepares them not only for the “big day,” but also for a lifetime of wholeheartedly embracing the Catholic faith as a family.
Paola and Arturo have been married for five years.
These two couples have been preparing for marriage this year and they are going to get married in August and September.
“We want to help the couples get to know one another better and help them learn about each other’s family customs and traditions,” Yonis says. “I feel it is my vocation to help Hispanic couples and families grow in their faith.”
Our parish also offers baptismal classes in Spanish, as well as courses for Hispanic adults who would like to become fully initiated as Catholics. A Spanish Mass is offered on Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. at the Church of St. Joseph.
