Hispanic/Latinos have diverse origins. One in eight persons in America is of
Hispanic/Latino origin. Yet it is a great error to assume homogeneity among Hispanics.
Based upon the Census Bureau's March 2000 Current Population Survey (CPS), persons of
Hispanic/Latino origin reported their origin was Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central or
South American or some other Latino origin. (Hispanics may be of any race.) Two-thirds
indicated Mexico as their place of origin. While there is much that Latino culture shares
in common, the diversity of origin means there is also great cultural diversity that
ministry emphases must take into consideration.
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QuickInsight Hispanic/Latino Diversity in Educational Attainment
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Hispanic/Latino Origins Source: 2000 Current Population Survey, U.S. Census Bureau
Hispanic
Origin
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Mexican
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66.1%
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Cuban
4.0%
Puerto Rican
9.0%
Central & South American
14.5%
Other Hispanic
6.4%
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Ministry Ideas
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Look for evidence of Hispanic/Latino cultural diversity
in your community.
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Examine demographic reports that report the regional or national origins of
the Hispanic/Latino population.
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Study the kinds of ministries currently in existence in your community. Do they
reflect the cultural distinctiveness of the places of origin? Is there a significant
Hispanic population of origin that is not being served?
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Consider ways to develop ministries that are sensitive to
the cultural diversity represented by the diversity of origins
present in your community.
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Gather a group of your church's leaders and share these findings with them.
Ask yourselves if there is a ministry calling here for your church or denominational
tradition.
