“Christ does not call us to be spectators of the faith, but missionary disciples, especially in our families and with our children,” said Marissa Lopez.
She was among the members of the Hispanic community in the Cleveland Diocese who successfully completed the Camino de la Fe y Sacramentos y Liturgia program. The Spanish online formation course in theology is offered in conjunction with the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame.
“This significant event marked the conclusion of a period of learning, growth and commitment and the beginning of a new mission in service to the Church, the family and the community,” said Hortensia De Jesus Rodriguez, diocesan director of Hispanic Ministry. Those completing the program were recognized at a July 5 ceremony at St. Mary Parish in Painesville. Each received a certificate from Father James Parisi, St. Mary parochial vicar, recognizing their effort, perseverance and dedication.
“Throughout these formation courses, participants dedicated time, effort and enthusiasm to strengthening their knowledge, developing new skills and deepening their vocation of service,” Rodriguez said. “Each session, reflection and shared experience contributed to their human, spiritual and pastoral growth.”
Rodríguez highlighted the importance of ongoing formation as a path toward personal and community transformation.
The celebration also included a message of hope and a call to mission by St. Mary’s pastor, Father Steve Vellenga. He invited the leaders to put into practice what they had learned and to be witnesses of the Gospel in their homes, parishes and communities.
Some of those who completed the course offered their thoughts on why they pursued the program.
- Alfonso Ledesma: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
- Rogelio Mendez: “Education opens the mind, strengthens the heart and prepares the hands to serve better.”
- Ricardo Rodriguez: "Education does not end when we obtain a degree; it ends when we stop learning."
- Alicia Rodríguez López : “Each day is a new opportunity to grow in faith, service and love our family. ”
Camino complements STEP, McGrath’s English online theology program. By focusing on supporting the Hispanic Catholic community, Camino reflects the McGrath Institute’s commitment to shaping Catholic leaders through a partnership model. It offers six sessions a year with offers 21 online courses, including those based on the catechism and other Church documents. Facilitators with a master’s degree in theology guide participants through the content.
Although it is structured similarly to STEP, creators of the Camino courses did not simply translate STEP material, said Elizabeth Berruecos, the assistant director of STEP and Camino. She said they wanted “to create Camino courses as something that will represent and reflect the reality of Hispanic ministry,” which she explained is distinct in the life of the Church.
“Camino meets students where they are, is accessible and is rigorous. It helps students with a rich faith experience deepen their understanding of God, who is present and active among us,” she added.
