Baltimore pastor details evolution of multicultural ministry

Published: 2008-04-28

BALTIMORE (CNS) -- At least 42 different nations are represented in the congregation at St. Matthew in Baltimore. The parish's multicultural ministry evolution began with the 1990 appointment of Father Joseph L. Muth Jr. as pastor of St. Matthew. Soon after his appointment, Father Muth noticed a small group of Africans from various nations in the congregation, but he quickly discovered they did not take part in the parish's social functions. After making inquiries, the Baltimore-born priest learned the newly arrived Africans didn't understand that a picnic or bull roast equaled a social gathering. Nor did they understand they were invited. "It dawned on me that there was a communication problem because we didn't fully understand one another's cultures," Father Muth said. "We had to figure out how to explain these things so that everyone understood. It was the only way we were going to be able to make them feel welcomed in our community."

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