Why Spanish Religious Ceremonies Improve Us.

Last weekend, my family and I were in The Dalles, Oregon (“home of the world famous cherry festival”) for a religious, “welcome to the world” ceremony for our daughter Maya, and our nephews Ribis and Jovan. The event drew a church leader from as far as Mexico City and family/friends from as far as Minnesota and Southern California. We expected a small ceremony, but there was a choir and at least 3-guitars going the entire time. It was lively. The prayers were in Spanish. The songs were in Spanish. And, when Edith and I thanked everyone for coming, we did it in Spanish.  

While I’m not advocating any religious denomination, I will say that attending Spanish mass or service (your preference) further reinvigorated my Spanish language. Moreover, these religious ceremonies are an excellent opportunity to engage with others and create a dialogue. It’s an opportunity to empower those who are less fortunate. Growing up my role models were in the Burlington Catholic church. It seemed they were the only ones with a “formal education.” These family-oriented events bridge the communication gap between the young and our parents. It provides a platform to learn, share and support each other. While growing up, the Spanish language was complex, difficult to comprehend, but it kept me from losing the language. How about you? Did church play an important role in helping you retain your second language?

Acculturation and Assimilation

Whether you are trying to acculturate and assimilate to the Costa Rican culture or to the American culture, it’s the same everywhere: are you adjusting comfortably or not. Spanish religious ceremonies in the U.S. help Latinos adapt to the American way of life. It’s an opportunity to engage our neighbors on government or recreational services, buying a house and staking out the future of our kids. Often members of the church’s only connection to the community is through the lens of the church. How might this affect acculturation and assimilation? 

Situation

The social-economic situation is dire if we choose not to take every opportunity to educate and empower K-12 students and parents, in particularly middle school and high school students, about college (this includes technical). Role models are in high demand. Latina and Latino youth need to see an overwhelming number of Latino role models. As “leaders” and “change agents” we need to be brushed up on the laws, policies that govern us; on systems and processes; mechanisms and best practices to best guide others. Do you believe the situation is dire? Can we wait another ten years to fix the problem? 

Final Word. Your Word.

What is your take? What has been your experiences in outreaching to the Spanish churches to inspire and empower a new generation? What message does the church or service lack in helping improve success factors for youth? I will be returning to the role of religion as it relates to retaining culture and language, but wanted to begin the dialogue. I look forward to your take below.

David Molina is the co-founder of BilingualHire. He can be reached at: [david at bilingualhireco dot com] or 1+(503) 512-8431.