Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life

Today’s Catholic America is more diverse than ever. Currently, there are more than 30 million Latino Catholics in America, representing the majority faith of all United States Latinos. An increasing number of ordained priests and deacons identify as Hispanic, a fact which demonstrates the expanding Latino representation in Church Leadership[1]. Additionally, one in four Catholic parishes celebrate at least one weekly Mass in Spanish, reflecting the influence of Latino Catholics beyond their traditional parishes [2]. By most indications, this should be a great period in the history of American Catholicism’s growing inclusivity. Yet, the political rhetoric in the nation seems to be moving away from inclusion especially with regard to the Latino community.

Two weeks ago, vice president Mike Pence addressed the hundreds of thousands gathered on the National Mall for the rally preceding the 44th Annual March for Life, the world’s largest pro-life demonstration: “Let this movement be known for love,” he said. “Not for anger. For compassion.”