St. Michael Catholic Church in Pontiac, Michigan, is the parish where I have the privilege of minis- tering. Located 30 miles north of Detroit, Pontiac is a diverse city where many cultures and immigrant groups converge. Five years ago, in early 2003, a Spanish Mass was established at the parish, thanks to the vision and diligence of our pastor. He decided it was time to address the pastoral needs of the growing Hispanic community in the area. I came on board in November of that year, so I was not there to witness the community’s initial growth. Though the first few Masses were moderately attended, I’ve been told, the church was filled to capacity in a matter of weeks. By the time I came along, St. Michael was already a hub for Hispanic ministry in Pontiac and a thriving multi- cultural parish—just six months later.

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