Meet the Ministry Leaders: Hispanic Outreach Ministry and Education
For me, HOME provides a space where faith and culture do not have to be separate, but can be deeply intertwined, welcome, and celebrated.
–Gustavo Hernandez, HOME founding member
I think it brings us closer as a church community, regardless of our backgrounds.
–Diane Mazuca, HOME founding member
September’s Ministry of the Month is Hispanic Outreach Ministry and Education (HOME).
HOME creates a welcoming environment for Hispanics and Latinos at St. David’s by fully incorporating those voices throughout ministries and as we worship together. This ministry shares and educates parishioners about the value and significance of the religious and cultural traditions practiced in Hispanic communities.
Two founding members, Diane Mazuca and Gustavo Hernandez, share their reflections on the ministry since it started around 2010.
Why is HOME important to you?
GH: While the HOME ministry at St. David’s is appropriately experienced largely through the lens of Mexican-American culture, the core elements of the Latino experience — language, food, family, community, and faith — resonate deeply with my own upbringing in Ecuador.
DM: There are several reasons why HOME is important to me: an opportunity to meet fellow Hispanics/Latinos who worship at St. David’s; share and educate parishioners on the Hispanic/Latino religious cultural traditions practiced by our families; provide awareness on issues of relevance to the Hispanic/Latino community and engage participation; and to participate in festivities, celebrations, and good food.
What is one event or practice that is meaningful for you and why?
DM: Of particular importance to me is the Día de los Muertos altar that is set up in the church lobby to commemorate All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days in early November. It is a significant tradition to honor those who are no longer with us in body, but their spirit remains, as does our love for them. The altar is an occasion for all parishioners to share photos, mementoes and stories of their beloved who have died. I think it brings us closer as a church community, regardless of our backgrounds.
GH: One of the most meaningful and moving signs of HOME’s impact has been the quiet and subtle inclusion of Spanish-language songs in our regular worship services. One of the goals of HOME is for Latino culture not to be simply an “event” or a particular date on the calendar when things are “different,” but rather to become part of the fabric of who St. David’s is — a community at the heart of the capital of a state many call “Tejas.”
For me, HOME provides a space where faith and culture do not have to be separate, but can be deeply intertwined, welcome, and celebrated. It creates an opportunity to encounter God through the familiar expressions of our heritage while also building a sense of belonging and community within St. David’s.
In what ways have you seen God working to help the ministry grow or change over the years?
DM: Church clergy and staff have become more involved in supporting HOME and ensuring its continued viability and participation in church activities. Clergy are now committed to incorporating Hispanic traditions and language into our services. Clergy, staff, and parishioners have also stepped into leadership roles to help fulfill HOME’s mission.
GH: I am very proud of St. David’s active work around social justice — particularly through the Migration with Dignity vigils. The political climate has clearly become increasingly hostile toward hardworking immigrants, regardless of their contributions to our communities and society, and toward expressions of cultural and linguistic diversity.
Many Latinos today are afraid to do simple, everyday things that many of us take for granted. In the midst of this reality, I believe our work is not only to celebrate and honor the diversity within our community, but also to bear witness to the suffering of those who are vulnerable, to speak for those whose voices cannot be heard, and to work tirelessly or the full manifestation of God's kingdom on this earth.
Do you have to be Hispanic to participate in HOME?
GH: You absolutely do not have to be Hispanic to participate! There is, however, one important requirement: you have to like churros!
DM: Input is welcomed from all parishioners on the best approach to communicate Hispanic/Latino religious culture and traditions. Being a member of HOME is an enjoyable way to meet fellow parishioners and to be exposed to other customs and practices.
What would you say to parishioners who are thinking of participating, but are unsure?
DM: This ministry designs vital events like an altar table to honor the Día de los Muertos, annual Posada with local Episcopal churches, and works with the worship team to create a service to commemorate the Feast of the Our Lady of Guadalupe. The group also creates awareness regarding social justice concerns affecting Hispanics in Texas.
GH: One of the things I love most about the HOME ministry is how diverse our group is. We come from different backgrounds and bring different gifts, experiences, and perspectives, but we share a desire to build community and celebrate the richness of Latino culture and faith.
We welcome your gifts, your ideas, and your enthusiasm as we continue to grow and deepen this ministry. Come be part of our journey—we’d love to have you join us!
HOME Breakfast
Sunday, Sept. 13
10 a.m., Sumners Hall
Join us for breakfast in Café Divine at 10 a.m. as we meet to plan events for the rest of 2026.
For questions, email .
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