AURORA—On May 15, the Catholic Church celebrated its anniversary, and to mark the occasion St. Rita of Cascia parishioners wore outfits representative of their cultures during the 10:15 a.m. Mass.

“St. Rita Parish is recognized by its cultural diversity,” said Father Oscar Cortes, parochial administrator.

“We have parishioners who come from different countries like Filipinos, Poles, Vietnamese, people from Africa, Arabs and of course, Latinos and Anglos.

“In Pentecost the disciples of Christ, moved by the Holy Spirit, talked in other tongues, giving the church its universal feature,” said Father Cortes to explain why the parish hosted a multicultural celebration on Pentecost Sunday.

For the celebration, children from St. Rita of Cascia School crafted tongues of fire made out of paper, which were then hung from the ceiling in the gathering space.

They also decorated the windows with doves, on which  they had written the countries where parishioners are from.

During Mass, Father Manuel Gomez, parochial vicar, invited those wearing a representative outfit to remain standing for a brief period of time in order for the community to appreciate the diversity in the parish.

When Mass ended Father Gomez invited them to gather at the altar.

Also during Mass, Mary George, the parish’s director of evangelization, was honored. She is retiring at the end of May after more than 20 years of service.

George has been the driving force for the Spanish and English versions of the Light of the World retreat in the parish and for years has promoted multiculturalism in the parish. She received a standing ovation.
— Beatriz Mendoza