Hundreds of Catholics from across the Diocese of Salt Lake City gathered at St. Rose of Lima Parish in Layton on Oct. 10 to celebrate Mary under her many titles and representations from around the world. The Intercultural Marian Celebration highlighted the diversity and unity of the local Church through various cultural traditions.
The gathering included representatives from Brazilian, Venezuelan, Mexican, Korean, Vietnamese, Tongan, and Filipino cultural communities. Bishop Oscar A. Solis welcomed the attendees, describing the event as a wonderful occasion to witness the diversity that conforms the diocese.
Due to rainy weather, the traditional street procession was replaced by a short procession around the parish parking lot and into the church. During the subsequent rosary, each mystery was prayed in a different language, including Portuguese, Spanish, English, Korean, and Vietnamese.
Bishop Solis presided over the Mass, joined by Father Sebastien Sasa, pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Parish, and Father Franklin Minzaki, parochial vicar of St. Rose of Lima, with Deacon Carlos Cortez assisting. During his homily, the bishop noted that October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary and emphasized that Mary's role is to lead people closer to her son, Jesus Christ.
Bishop Solis addressed the growing diversity of communities as people migrate and settle in new regions, stating that faith in Jesus Christ unites Catholics despite differences in culture, language, or background. He encouraged congregants to embrace the diverse faces they encounter in their parishes and communities.
During the celebration, Bishop Solis invested young members of the Vincentian Marian Youth, recognizing their commitment to faith, prayer, and service. These groups, which include preteens and teens aged 9–18, are part of the Vincentian Family and are inspired by the charism of Saint Vincent de Paul.
The event concluded with a potluck featuring dishes from around the world, allowing participants to share food, music, and entertainment to strengthen friendships within the diocesan community.
The celebration ended with an invitation for various cultural community representatives to stand, serving as a visible reminder of the unity present among Catholics from different backgrounds.
