The Catholic Church is a multicultural, universal, Catholic family and all are welcome. We are challenged to read the signs of the times in light of our diversity and unity with the global Church. An article in U.S. Catholic, July 2000, entitled "Don't be indifferent to difference," by Fr. Gary Riebe-Estrella, S.V.D., explains a distinction between multicultural - including different cultures living side by side - and interculturalism, which he defines as "people of different cultures interacting with each other." The author suggeststhat we learn the dynamics of culture including values, behaviors, customs and family systems and that having this knowledge can enhance our relationships. Our Catholic faith is a bond between us and is enriched by our diversity.

In light of ongoing outreach to Hispanics, the Catholic Church is responding to issues affecting Hispanic women who may tend to be reluctant to come forward when they are experiencing domestic violence. This is a pastoral concern that needs our attention.

The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has held an annual luncheon for Hispanic women for the past 13 years. At the luncheon held in May 2000, the keynote speaker challenged the 400 women present to look at the issue of domestic violence. As a result, a Latina Domestic Violence Consortium was established to evaluate existing resources for Latina women who are being abused. The consortium is made up of 17 organizations that provide a variety of resources for Latina women. On October 25, 2000, the consortium sponsored a roundtable comprised of Hispanic community, business, civic, social services and spiritual leaders as well as victims who addressed domestic violence in the Hispanic family and how to confront this problem.

During the roundtable, concerns that were voiced included lack of education about the rights of Hispanic women, lack of financial resources, lack of knowledge about agency and community resources, and concerns about bus routes and family support. Possible responses included the education of church leaders and volunteers about this issue, and the need to provide domestic violence information in local congregations.

As a direct result of the consortium's efforts, Milwaukee County Supervisor Tony Zielinski was able to obtain funding to add a bilingual hot line to the current domestic violence emergency hotline in place at Sojourner Truth House. In addition, the Hispanic Resource Center has been established on 8th and Mitchell and will provide counseling, support groups, information and education for the Hispanic community. The prophetic voice of the Church will play an important part in continued ministry to the Hispanic community and in service to all people.

For information, contact Thelma Walker, Director - Office for Women, 414-769-3501 or 800-769-9373, x501 or e-mail walkert@archmil.org