Milagros Ramos

Over the next couple of months, we have plenty of opportunities to experience celebrations and times of worship from the various cultures we have in our diocese. We all know that, in the wake of all that has happened in Charlottesville, we must turn to our Lord in prayer for peace in our country. It is important that we all come together to pray for each other, and with each other. The Lord calls us to love one another as he loves us.

What are some of the things we can do to make things better in our communities and world? I believe that the more we get to know each other, the more we will see that we are all made in the image and likeness of Christ. He loves each and every one of us. There is no room for hatred and violence. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. We must challenge ourselves to speak out against the injustices and support each other.    

The theme for this year's Puerto Rican Hispanic Parade of WNY was "United Always," and our Diocesan Hispanic/Latino Commission and the committee preparing decided to extend the theme to "United Always in Christ." The first opportunity we have, as far as diocesan events, will be on Sept. 10, when the Diocese of Buffalo will kick off the Hispanic Heritage Month with a Mass co-sponsored by the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY Inc. The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Richard J. Malone. Our homilist will be Father James Loiacono, OMI. It will take place at Holy Cross Church in Buffalo, at 12:30 p.m. The Mass will be followed by a reception with food, music and dance. Join us as our Hispanic brothers and sister share their Catholic faith and share their customs and traditions.

Hispanic Heritage month runs from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. Throughout this time, various cultural activities will be held throughout the diocese. Check out their website (hispanicheritagewny.org/) for information about their upcoming events.