Open house showcases programs, services of Hispanic Apostolate; scholarship gala June 22

Photos by Christine Bordelon | CLARION HERALD

The Hispanic Apostolate in Metairie, founded in 1972, held an open house Feb. 28. Dominican Father Sergio Serrano, director, detailed the pastoral and community services that it currently offers: an annual gala (June 22) that raises scholarship money for Hispanic children to attend Catholic school; an annual pilgrimage; lay spiritual formation classes through the Southeast Pastoral Institute (SEPI); retreats for all ages; a radio show hosted by Father Serrano on 105.7 FM; a music ministry called Ministerio Musico; four priests on staff; quarterly meetings for priests who serve in Spanish-speaking parishes;  Charismatic Renewal in Spanish; daily Mass and confession; Marian feast day Masses; monthly praise and worship led by lay people; Bible and marriage preparation classes; a food pantry; backpack giveaways filled with school supplies; Zumba classes; and a gym. Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans also offers immigration and refugee services, English as Second Language classes and more.