Worshipers enjoyed worship, music, and food at the Hispanic/Latinx Celebration.

Each year, from September 15 through October 15, we observe Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and honor the many contributions of Hispanic/Latinx people to our country, our communities, and our churches. Through food, music, art, traditions, faith, and cultural diversity, Hispanic/Latinx communities have enriched the fabric of our nation and church in countless ways.

In the Northern Illinois Conference, we celebrate our Hispanic/Latinx communities as an essential part of who we are as The United Methodist Church. Through our 17 Hispanic/Latinx ministries and the leadership of 33 Hispanic/Latinx pastors, we continue to seek meaningful ways to support our clergy, leaders, congregations, and communities. Their ministries are powerful witnesses to God's love, bringing hope and strengthening the communities in which they serve.

Attendees gathered to celebrate their shared faith, culture, and community.

It has become a tradition in our conference to observe Hispanic Heritage Month through our Annual Hispanic Celebration, a gathering centered on worship, fellowship, and camaraderie. This year, we gathered on October 17 at North Northfield United Methodist Church. More than 15 churches were represented, with approximately 80 people coming together around the theme, “We Are One in the Lord.” It was a joyful opportunity to celebrate our heritage and remember that we belong to one another as members of the body of Christ.

As we gathered, we also remembered that in 2025 we chose not to meet in person because we did not want to put our people at risk. Although the circumstances remain challenging, we continue to move forward with determination, faith, hope, and resilience. We refuse to allow fear to have the final word. We remain committed to serving God and our neighbors, trusting that God's presence sustains us even in uncertain times.

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, we are invited to reflect on an important question:
How will we continue to celebrate and support the Hispanic/Latinx communities?

Fall decorations joined decorations from different Hispanic/Latinx traditions at the alter.

The contributions, stories, and presence of Hispanic/Latinx communities deserve to be recognized and celebrated throughout the year. More importantly, at a time when many Hispanic/Latinx individuals and families are experiencing fear, uncertainty, and the threat of persecution, our response as people of faith must go beyond words of appreciation. We are called to stand alongside our neighbors, listen to their concerns, accompany those who feel vulnerable, and create communities where everyone can worship, gather, serve, and live with dignity.

The church must be a community where people know they are not alone, where compassion overcomes indifference, where courage challenges injustice, and where love is stronger than fear. Our solidarity must be visible in our relationships and our actions.

Our Hispanic/Latinx churches were deeply touched by the generosity and compassion demonstrated across our conference through the Emergency Solidarity Fund initiated by Bishop Dan Schwerin last year. When our members faced financial hardship, our conference stepped up to provide practical support for families struggling to pay rent, utilities, groceries, and other essential bills. This response was more than financial assistance; it was a powerful expression of love, solidarity, and our commitment to care for one another as the body of Christ.

As we move beyond Hispanic Heritage Month, may we carry this spirit of solidarity into every season of our ministry. May we continue to open our hearts, share our resources, speak courageously against injustice, and stand alongside those who experience fear, uncertainty, and persecution. Let us ensure that our Hispanic/Latinx neighbors know they are valued, their voices matter, and their presence strengthens the body of Christ. We are one in the Lord, and we are called not only to celebrate one another, but to stand with one another.

View images from the Oct. 17, 2026 Hispanic/Latine Celebration below.