General
The Hispanic Experience in Marriage Enrichment by Alicia I. Perez (2007)
National Pastoral Initiative for Marriage Consultation on Marriage Enrichment, January 23, 2007
The Hispanic Experience in Marriage Enrichment by Alicia I. Perez, Associate Director of Family Life Ministry, Archdiocese of Galveston Houston
Hispanics recognize the Church as a beacon of HOPE. Immigrants to the United States from Latin American Countries see the Church as a source of Wisdom. This is the experience they bring from their countries of origin. They see the church as a safe place “a sanctuary.”
When their marriage is in crisis, couples look to the hierarchy for guidance. They are not always aware of the difference between moral and spiritual guidance, emotional health and interpersonal relational skills. Their mothers, neighbors and friends will tell a couple that has a relationship problem to go to the church “por un consejo” (for guidance). They will trust what the priest says.