An informal survey of Colorado UCC churches has been nearly completed, with the Unidos por la Esperanza network gaining narrative information and inspiration about Latino ministry in our midst.
Members:
Latina/o individuals (1 or more) are in membership at congregations in Colorado Springs, Denver, Aurora, and Greeley. The language used at these worship services is English. One new congregation is forming which uses both Spanish and English - Comunidad Liberacion has current worshipping attendance of 20 people.
Mission Partners:
Long-time UCC members give time and energy to a number of advocacy and non-profit organizations including Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission, Denver Justice and Peace, La Puente, Denver Inner City Parish, Justice for Janitors campaign, Coloradoans for Immigrant Rights, and the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, as well as various housing and relief projects. These organizations sometimes do educational programs at churches to raise awareness. In addition, some congregations have donated to the nearest Catholic church after nearby anti-immigrant raids and deportations.
Clergy:
Currently Rev. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi is the only Latina/o UCC minister in Colorado. She may soon be joined by Iliff student Nancy Rosas. Bilingual ministers (with Spanish as a second language) include Rev. Benjamin Broadbent, Rev. Malcolm Himschoot, Rev. Melinda Townsend, and In Care pastor Anne Dunlap.
Neighborhoods:
Neighborhood ministry remains a challenge for congregations, whether they are located in a lower-income area but attract regional commuters, or whether they are located in an upscale area where the majority of Latinos can work but cannot afford to live. Despite the challenges, some congregations are taking initiative. Click to read the article on "Latino Ministries" in the Rocky Mountain Conference UCC newsletter.
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