Feliz mes de la herencia hispana! Or as we in Puerto Rican culture like to say, WEPA! Hispanic Heritage Month is always a time that fills me with joy and celebration. As a second-generation Puerto Rican-American, it’s an opportunity for me to reconnect with and honor some of my cultural traditions and share my culture with loved ones.
Throughout the month I like to frequent the local Puerto Rican-owned restaurants around town, enjoying cultural favorites like cafecito, pastelillos, mofongo, while supporting small businesses. I also like to share musical anthems with my friends so they can experience our culture through music. These seemingly simple moments help to create a spirit of joy, celebration, and sharing.
My journey to St. Luke’s began about 7 years ago, as a volunteer in the Theatre Ministry working on Beauty and the Beast. It was here that I was able to learn and witness first-hand St. Luke’s mission and vision, which allowed me to dive deeper into Scripture and study, strengthening my understanding of God’s abundant love. The fellowship, community, and outward expression of love are what drew me here to St. Luke’s and inspired me to serve. Since that first introduction, I currently have the pleasure and privilege to use my gifts and talents with the Contemporary Praise Team and as Chair of Church Council. Being a part of a church that leads with action to show God’s love in the community is a gift.
As I think about my upbringing, faith has always played a prominent role within my culture. I can look through my life and see multiple moments where God was present in the big and the small, through it all. In my experience, faith is incredibly embedded in Hispanic culture as a source of motivation, inspiration, support, and guidance; many of these principles I carry with me throughout all facets of my life. In celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at St. Luke’s, I love being able to share and celebrate the intersectionality of culture and faith together through things like singing Spanish coritos in worship, participating in Purposefull Conversations, and insightful conversations with Life Together groups. With so many ways to share and celebrate this month together, I can’t wait for you to join us!
-Brittany Vega, St. Luke’s Church Council Chair