Ethnic Development Program

What is it?
The program simply means to reach out to Hispanic men by offering them membership in the Knights of Columbus through a Spanish speaking council or round table. It is geared mainly at men who either do not speak English or feel more comfortable in an environment in which Spanish is the predominant language. It also provides bilingual members an opportunity to utilize their Spanish language skills and their leadership skills in guiding and directing members of a Spanish speaking council or round table.

Why is Hispanic Outreach necessary?
It is predicted that in 20 to 30 years, the largest ethnic group comprising the Catholic Church in America, will be the Hispanic population; meanwhile today, it is the largest minority in the entire country. The future of the order thus lies in developing this segment of the population now, so that in 20 or 30 years, the seeds that are sown today, may bear fruit then. Also, in many parts of the Southeast, our protestant brothers and sisters are aggressively targeting our immigrant Hispanic brothers by displaying paintings of Our Lady of Guadalupe in front of their temples in order to attract them and thus ultimately deprive them of the gifts of the sacraments and the fullness of the truth, which is our Catholic Church. Mind you, over 90% of Hispanic immigrants are already Catholic; we are just attempting to retain them.

How is this to be done?
Through diocesan listings, local knowledge, and assistance from your State Ethnic Development Coordinator, Vicen Alvarez, you can identify potential parishes where Spanish masses are offered and after getting the pastor's approval decide whether a council or round table would be suitable. Generally, if there is no council in the parish and its size is greater than 150 families, a council is appropriate. If there is already a council in the parish and if the pastor does not want two councils or the parish size is under 150 families, then a round table is appropriate.

Is there information and brochures in Spanish available?
Yes, virtually all recruitment brochures, posters, 4 videos and all forms for running the council are available in Spanish. The Ethnic Development Coordinator is available to assist in membership drives, information sessions, and 1st degrees in Spanish.

Must I be able to speak Spanish to work with this effort?
No. It certainly helps to know Spanish but your leadership and organizational skills are more critical and important at this stage for you to be successful in this effort.

How do I get started?
First, talk to the pastor of the parish you have identified. If he approves, then contact your chain of command and the State Ethnic Development Coordinator to proceed forward.

The Ethnic Development Chairman is Vicen Alvarez.