The Acts of Convention

Whereas, the National Commission on Hispanic Ministry was created by the 1970 General Convention to develop, support, and make effective the Church's commitment to a full national Hispanic ministry, in all its aspects; and

Whereas, the Hispanic ministry has been studied and evaluated in depth in the National Consultations of diocesan delegates and the National Commission on Hispanic Ministries in 1975, 1977, and 1978, and the need for further implementation and enablement has been strongly expressed; and the National Hispanic Caucus, representing all the regions of Hispanic work in the Church, have signified their support for the National Commission on Hispanic Ministry and the work it has accomplished; and

Whereas, despite the growth and potential growth of Hispanics inside and outside the Episcopal Church, Hispanics are not adequately represented on the policy and planning levels of the Episcopal Church with voice and vote; and

Whereas, the National Commission on Hispanic Ministry now needs a further mandate, to continue to the next phase of effectiveness and accomplishment; therefore be it

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 66th General Convention of the Episcopal Church reaffirm and deepen its commitment to a fuller Hispanic ministry in obedience to the Great Commission to all people expressed in the General Convention of the Episcopal Church in 1835, and mandate the continuation and expansion of the work of the National Commission on Hispanic Ministries; and be it further

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 66th General Convention of the Episcopal Church direct the Executive Council to implement and encourage the increased participation and membership of Hispanic persons on decision-making bodies of the Church--such as General Convention Committees and Commissions, Seminary Boards of Trustees, boards and departments of the National Church, Diocesan Commissions and Councils, and in various ways provide Hispanic ministry with an adequate voice.