President of the Episcopal Church House of Deputies, Julia Ayala Harris, visited Seminary of the Southwest in late September to join in the celebrations of Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month. The seminary has a tradition of hosting several events on campus from September 15th to October 15th to showcase the vibrant cultures, flavors, and heritage of Latinx people. President Ayala Harris joined the seminary for an Evensong chapel service where she delivered the homily. Afterward, she joined Latinx concentration students along with the Reverenda Nancy Frausto for dinner and filmed a short video for the House of Deputies with Southwest students.
“The seminary community was honored to have President Ayala Harris among us as part of our observance of Latinx/Hispanic Heritage month,” shared the Very Rev. Cynthia Briggs Kittredge, Dean and President of Seminary of the Southwest. “Her sermon at Evensong spoke to the moment the church is in, the transitional time that is both scary and promising. She described the dreams to which we aspire. I am grateful to know her and hope this is the first of many visits to Seminary of the Southwest.”
President Ayala Harris took time during her visit to meet with students in the new learning complex to answer their questions and hear their stories. She spoke of her three priorities as president of accessibility, inclusivity, and safety and engaged students in conversation on the priorities. Additionally, President Ayala Harris asked students for responses on current and upcoming projects and ideas especially as the Church prepares for the 81st General Convention in 2024.
President Ayala Harris was also able to explore Austin and visited the Mexic-Arte Museum with the Reverenda Frausto and the Latinx concentration students. The museum is currently hosting their 40th annual ofrenda de la communidad (community altar) for Día de los Muertos that is celebrated on November 1st. Afterwards, in true Austin fashion, President Ayala Harris and Southwest students went and enjoyed delicious tacos together.
President Ayala Harris shared, “I am inspired by the seminary’s dedication to preparing faith leaders who champion diversity, promote human dignity, and build a more just society. My visit was a reminder of how intercultural understanding can strengthen and unite us. It was a privilege to take part in this special commemoration of Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month. I am grateful for the warm welcome and hospitality.”
