Editorial

Reports from the 2000 census revealed that the number of Hispanics in the United States increased substantially in the past 10 years. The growth of Hispanics in the Diocese of Madison was also dramatic, particularly in Dane County.

In 1990, there were only 5,793 people of Hispanic origin in the 11 counties of the Diocese of Madison. By the year 2000, that number grew to over 26,724.

Dealing with diversity. The numbers of people coming from counties in Asia and Africa have also increased in Wisconsin and other parts of the United States. Our nation has always welcomed immigrants, but in the earlier years of our country they were often from European countries. In more recent decades, the newcomers reveal a much greater diversity of color, ethnic background, cultures, and religious traditions.

Dealing with such diversity has been a challenge for society at large and for our churches. Many Latino newcomers -- as well as those from Asian and African countries to a lesser extent -- come from Roman Catholic backgrounds. How do we as a society and as a church reach out to welcome these new immigrants? It is indeed a challenge but one we must face -- and quickly.

Diocesan priority. In the Diocese of Madison, Bishop William H. Bullock has made it a priority to address the needs of a multicultural church. With his background in Catholic Relief Services, he has met with people in many parts of the world, including Africa. He has developed a special relationship with Archbishop Anthony Obinna of the Archdiocese of Owerri in Nigeria, resulting in Nigerian priests coming to the Diocese of Madison and two Nigerian seminarians being ordained for our diocese.

Bishop Bullock is considering accepting seminarians from other countries as well. And he wants the Diocese of Madison to reach out to welcome seminarians and people of all diverse backgrounds into our church.

The diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry has expanded its programs and services to the increasing numbers of Hispanic people. Plans are also progressing on the new Catholic Multicultural Center to replace Centro Guadalupano and St. Martin House on Madison's south side. (See related story, "New Catholic Multicultural Center: Excavation begins; fund raising underway" for more information.)

In the spirit of the holiday season, people might consider a gift to the new Catholic Multicultural Center. Contact Jay Conzemius at 608-821-3040 for details.

The Office of Hispanic Ministry (608-821-3092) and the Office for Justice and Peace (608-821-3086) always welcome volunteers for their many outreach programs. Gifts to local food pantries and other organizations in our community are also excellent ideas at this time of year.

Yes, our country and our diocese include a much more diverse group of people, our sisters and brothers in Christ. We must do our part to welcome them and help integrate them into our communities and our church.

Mary C. Uhler, editor