Prayer for the World September 24, 2025

Hispanic Heritage Month

Introduction:

Hispanic Heritage is a month- long celebration (Sept 15 - Oct15) of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. This celebration provides the opportunity to give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and traditional food and much more.

Hispanic Heritage month provides an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. The Latino/Hispanic presence in America spans centuries, predating Spain's colonization of what is now part of the United States, and they have been an integral part of shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War.

Today the Hispanic/ Latino population in the US is over 60 million according to the latest census. This makes up 18.9% of the total population and is the largest racial or ethnic group. The Hispanic/ Latino culture is extremely diverse, and there is no singular Latino experience. The identities of Hispanic/ Latinos are filled with many layers, shaped by factors such as geography, history, race and gender.

Song: For All the World by Jan Novotka     (Roots and Wings)

For all the world we gather here! For all the world we come, we gather now as one, one in love. (refrain)

Look into the eyes of your neighbor and let division fade, see in the other the essence of being, the light of Spirit within.

We come together to honor and reverence the gift that each of us is. Taking the time to be present, to listen, with openness healing begins.

Random thoughts for reflection:

• Even though the Hispanic/ Latino communities have been here for generations, they continue to be marginalized communities.

• Sometimes their migratory experiences are oversimplified, so we fail to understand the complexities and nuances that define the migratory experience

• Celebrating Hispanic Heritage month invites us to look beyond stereotypes and prejudices, reminding us that behind every immigrant is a unique story of resilience and humanity.

• What is the role of the Church in a society that is being shaped and transformed by immigration?

• In an increasingly xenophobic and hostile environment, the mission of the Church remains not only relevant but is indispensable.

Silent Reflection

Prayers of Petition and Thanksgiving:

• We thank you for the gift of our Hispanic and Latino brothers and sisters. Grant that we continue to be a place with open doors, open hearts, making room for all. We pray

• Give us generous hearts that we may continue to use our gifts to support one another, We pray

• We praise you for the gift of community. Thank you for the community that is your Body, the Church.   We pray

• Fill us with your spirit so that we reflect your light and love to each other and the world. We pray

Let us Pray:

We thank you for our wondrous diversity, cultures, traditions and language. For all the ways we celebrate our humanity and praise your divinity. We value all people, and in this time, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. We thank you for the many contributions that Hispanic/Latinos have made - and continue to make to our great country. Make us even stronger as one nation because of our diverse gifts and experiences. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Song: For all the World