Latino Ministry
Hello y Bienvenidos!!!
From your first moment at St. Francis, you’ll feel at home as we are committed to being a bilingual community that values cultural diversity and inclusion. Everyone is welcome here, as we celebrate the multicultural expressions of faith enriching our unique spiritual journey.
Our Latino Ministry works in collaboration with other ministries to welcome Spanish-speaking neighbors as a vibrant part of our community.
- Every Monday, our “indoor choice pantry” becomes a place of shared resources and connection, where people freely speak in their own language and feel understood.
- Also on Monday, we hold Latino Ministry Office Hours where a lay leader is available to provide orientations to life at St. Francis.
- Additionally, each Wednesday at 6:00 p.m., the Wednesday Welcoming Table offers a familiar space where we share a meal prepared by amazing volunteers; occasionally, we feature traditional Latino dishes
- Every Thursday at 5:00 p.m., we offer English/Spanish conversational lessons to strengthen our cultural competency as members of a multicultural community. This small group has developed a close bond.
In the fall we celebrate the Feast of St. Francis with animal blessings, in honor of our patron saint, Francis of Assisi. During the Christmas season, we are available to bless homes, nativity scenes, and Christmas trees. We celebrate Candelaria, Ash Wednesday, Lent, and Holy Week. First Communion, Quinceañeras, Baptisms, and Confirmation are open to all.
Many projects are underway to support and grow the Spanish-speaking community here at St. Francis. Ask us about our growing craft and music classes!
If you want to stay more updated with our activities, join our WhatsApp group through the QR code below:
The Rev. Giuliano Gargiulo
he/him
Assistant Rector
About Me:
I grew up in a quaint village in Northern Italy, a region enriched by vineyards, culture, and historic mansions. As the youngest of five children, my early years were marked by challenges, including my parents’ divorce and the loss of my mother during my teenage years. Despite these hardships, I found solace and purpose through my faith, which guided me towards a life dedicated to others. At 17, I joined a youth movement dedicated to supporting those in need across South America. This transformative experience led me to spend seventeen years in Peru, working tirelessly to bring dignity and relief to people living in remote Andean regions. After nearly two decades of service and seeing the completion of numerous community projects, I felt called to embark on a new journey. I moved to the United States, where I have continued my mission, now focusing on Spanish Ministry. I am thrilled to have recently joined St. Francis as Assistant Rector.
My Role:
As the Assistant Rector at St. Francis, my role is part of a broader assignment with the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. My mission is to develop and nurture new pastoral spaces to welcome immigrants Spanish speaking into our community. By bridging linguistic and cultural gaps, I hope to lay the foundation for a vibrant, multicultural congregation.
My Dream for St. Francis:
I envision St. Francis as a thriving and dynamic multicultural community where diversity is celebrated, and the unity of being part of one family is cherished.
A Few of my Favorite Things:
I am passionate about lifelong learning, currently pursuing a double major in Integrated Design of Communication at the University of Baltimore and Social Psychology at Southern New Hampshire University.
My journey is also enriched by my love for the arts and beauty, which I see as expressions of my inner need for harmony and elevation of the human spirit.
Fun fact:
I have a deep love for languages and cultures. I am fluent in Italian, Spanish, and English. Interestingly, my French skills seemed to vanish when I learned Spanish, but I am confident they are still tucked away somewhere in my brain.
Upcoming Events
Lent Sermon Series / Serie de Sermones de Cuaresma
Del Padre Giuliano
Sunday School at St. Francis / Escuela Dominical en St. Francis
As we begin a new year, St. Francis Episcopal Parish & Community Center is happy to resume our Sunday School for children, youth, and adults. After our holiday pause, we...
Why We Pray in Two Languages
By Giuliano Gargiulo, Spanish Ministry Intern More Than Words At St. Francis Episcopal Parish & Community Center, the sound of prayer often rises in two voices—English...
