A Word of Encouragement, Rev. Rubén Ortiz, Director of National Programs
In the midst of the current challenges facing our world, our call as believers to #GoandDo remains. As people of faith, we know we are not called to fear but are also called to make wise decisions to ensure the health of those around us. Our team has connected with many of you – whether you serve as a youth pastor, clergy, or member of a local community of faith – to hear about how you are doing. We have held meetings remotely to continue our learning and fellowship. We continue to develop resources and programs that will be a blessing to each of you.
We trust in God’s protection and sovereignty – and are praying that each of you would be strengthened during this time.
Apply for the Esperanza Hispanic Ministry Small Grant Fund!
The EHMSGF is used to invest in the work of Christ as expressed in the Hispanic church and its leaders. This grant fund supports projects that focus on development of the church’s leadership and ministries of service to the Latino/Hispanic community. In light of the effects of COVID-19, this grant may also support projects churches are currently engaged in response efforts. Click here to register for our Grant Writing workshop on June 4th at 11 a.m.!
Envisioning the Esperanza Chapel
As one of the nation’s largest Hispanic faith based non-profit organizations founded by the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia, we have long envisioned a chapel on our campus to serve our neighbors, students, and guests. La Capilla Camino Esperanza will offer a sacred space for quiet contemplation and community worship, provide sanctuary to the stranger, and deliver hope to those long suffering under the burden of poverty, trauma and neglect. The chapel will be a place to step away from the pressures of life and to rediscover the hope of living into the opportunity afforded us by God’s abundant love. We look forward to sharing news of how this vision comes to life!
Ciencia, Fe y Esperanza
Esperanza has launched a Science, Faith & Hope project with funding from The John Templeton Foundation! This 2-year pilot will support Hispanic communities of faith across the Greater Philadelphia region to explore connections between religious beliefs and modern scientific principles.
We have established a Leadership Coalition consisting of experts in both the faith and science fields who will develop practical resources and a toolkit for pastors and congregations. They will help us to explore Neurotheology (the relationship between the brain and religion), Artificial Intelligence, and Health & Well-being. Stay tuned for our upcoming series of podcasts which will introduce you to this exciting program, and conversations with Christian theologians, pastors, and scientists.
Click here to read more.
Meet Our Newest Member
Esperanza recently hired Dr. Edgardo Rosado as Associate Project Director to help bring the Science, Faith & Hope project to life. Dr. Rosado serves as Executive Pastor with the Nazarene church in Media, PA, and has been an adjunct professor with various colleges and Bible Institutes. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, a Master’s of Arts degree in Pastoral Leadership, and a Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies. He was originally a biology student at the University of Puerto Rico with the intent of becoming a medical doctor. However, he felt led to study theology and is moved by the compatibility and commonness between both fields.
Click here for a Q&A with Dr. Rosado about his passion for this work!
Mourning Loss of Luis Antonio Cortés
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of the father of our Founder, President & CEO, Rev. Luis Cortés, Jr. and Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff, Rev. Danny Cortés. Luis Antonio Cortés was born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico in 1937 and later moved to New York City, where he met Rosa Miriam Vega, his wife of 63 years. Together they raised their three children, Luis, Albert, and Danny, and enjoyed the blessing of 6 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. He was 83 years of age. Should you wish to express your condolences, cards can be sent to Esperanza, 4261 North 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Esperanza Chapel Fund in memory of Luis Antonio Cortes. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones. (Psalm 116:15)
The Call to Be Counted
One important way that you can #GoandDo during this season is by participating in the 2020 Census. Fill out the form on paper or visit the website here. Just a few minutes will ensure that all of the members of our communities and communities of faith are counted. These numbers impact the funding that is allocated to our cities and states to meet the needs of our communities.
