Salina, Kansas – The Catholic Diocese of Salina is preparing to host Retiro Jonás, a Hispanic Evangelization Retreat, April 11-12, offering a weekend dedicated to spiritual renewal and deepening faith within the Hispanic community. The retreat, conducted entirely in Spanish, will feature guidance from renowned Mexican speaker and author Carlos Macías de Lara, director of the Kerigma International Center.
This immersive experience aims to provide participants with an opportunity for personal encounter with God, a strengthening of their missionary spirit, and a renewed commitment to evangelization. The retreat draws inspiration from the biblical story of Jonah, emphasizing the call to share faith and bring a message of hope, much like the prophet was sent to Nineveh. The event underscores the Diocese of Salina’s commitment to serving its diverse population and fostering a vibrant spiritual life for all its members.
A Weekend of Faith and Renewal
Retiro Jonás will take place over two days, beginning Saturday, April 11th, at 8:00 am and concluding Sunday, April 12th, at 4:00 pm. The intensive schedule is designed to create a focused environment for prayer, reflection, and learning. Participants can expect a blend of teachings, personal testimonies, and opportunities for communal worship. The retreat’s structure is intended to facilitate a profound spiritual experience, allowing attendees to disconnect from daily routines and fully immerse themselves in their faith.
The Diocese of Salina has a long history of supporting the Hispanic community, recognizing its vital role in the spiritual fabric of the region. According to the Diocese of Salina website, the Hispanic population represents a significant portion of the Catholic faithful within the diocese, making events like Retiro Jonás particularly important.
Carlos Macías de Lara: A Guiding Voice
A central figure in this year’s retreat is Carlos Macías de Lara, a highly respected preacher, author, and director of the Kerigma International Center, traveling from Italy to lead the event. Macías de Lara’s work focuses on evangelization and spiritual formation, and he is known for his engaging and insightful presentations. He has authored multiple books on faith and spirituality, and his teachings have resonated with audiences across Latin America, and beyond. The Kerigma International Center, based in Rome, is dedicated to promoting the Gospel and fostering a deeper understanding of Catholic teachings.
Macías de Lara’s presence is expected to draw a large crowd, as he is a well-known and beloved figure within the Hispanic Catholic community. His expertise in evangelization and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level make him an ideal guide for this weekend of spiritual exploration. His leadership will focus on helping participants open their hearts to God and strengthen their commitment to sharing their faith with others.
Practical Information for Attendees
Retiro Jonás is open to all members of the Hispanic community seeking to deepen their faith. The retreat will be held at the Catedral del Sagrado Corazón in Salina, Kansas. Those interested in attending or seeking further information are encouraged to contact the Sacred Heart Cathedral Office at (785) 823-7221. The retreat is free to attend, but pre-registration is recommended to ensure adequate space and materials.
The Catedral del Sagrado Corazón, located in the heart of Salina, serves as a central hub for Catholic worship and community activities. The cathedral’s facilities are well-suited to accommodate a large gathering, providing a comfortable and welcoming environment for participants. The Diocese of Salina is committed to providing a safe and accessible experience for all attendees.
The Significance of Hispanic Evangelization
The Catholic Church has long recognized the importance of evangelization within the Hispanic community, which represents a growing segment of the Catholic population in the United States. According to a 2020 Pew Research Center study, Hispanics now make up approximately 45% of all U.S. Catholics. This demographic shift underscores the need for culturally relevant and linguistically accessible programs like Retiro Jonás.
Hispanic evangelization efforts aim to address the unique spiritual needs and cultural contexts of Hispanic Catholics, providing them with opportunities to connect with their faith in a meaningful way. These programs often incorporate elements of Hispanic culture, music, and traditions, creating a sense of belonging and fostering a deeper connection to the Church. Retiro Jonás exemplifies this approach, offering a retreat entirely in Spanish and led by a prominent Hispanic leader.
The retreat’s focus on the story of Jonah also resonates deeply within the Hispanic cultural context. The prophet’s journey of obedience and his call to deliver a message of repentance are themes that resonate with many Hispanic Catholics, who often face challenges and injustices in their own lives. The retreat provides a space for participants to reflect on their own experiences and to find strength and inspiration in the biblical narrative.
As the Diocese of Salina prepares to host Retiro Jonás, it reaffirms its commitment to serving the spiritual needs of its diverse community. This event represents a valuable opportunity for Hispanic Catholics to deepen their faith, renew their commitment to evangelization, and experience the transformative power of God’s grace.
The next step for those interested in attending is to contact the Sacred Heart Cathedral Office at (785) 823-7221 to confirm availability and registration details. We encourage readers to share this information with members of the Hispanic community who may benefit from this enriching spiritual experience. Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.