Moravian Seminary alumnae lead congregations that begin shared outreach to Latino neighbors

Two United Methodist congregations in the Hazleton, PA area that are led by Moravian Seminary alumnae are beginning a shared outreach ministry to Spanish speaking members of their community. Pastors Carol Vinson Lawfer '94 and Drena Miller '01 have been instrumental in establishing this all-volunteer ministry that will begin serving the greater Hazleton community with classes in basic English instruction.

According to Rev. Lawfer, “Members of our congregations clearly believe that meeting the needs of the community and offering hospitality to neighbors is part of what it means to be the Christian church.”  Carol is pastor of Diamond United Methodist Church in Hazleton and Drena serves St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Drums, they along with many of their church members have spent months planning their joint outreach ministry, Greater Hazleton Metro Ministries.

Lawfer explains that this community ministry developed from a discussion between Diamond UMC lay leader, David Orbin, and herself concerning the church's need to connect with the neighborhood around the church, which has undergone massive demographic change over the past five years. It was also, though not directly, a response to the 2006 Hazleton City Council's anti-immigration legislation which would have imposed fines on landlords and business owners who rent to or hire illegal immigrants.The connection with the Drum United Methodist congregation came about because Pastor Drena and some of their members wanted to connect with a community ministry that could make a difference.

This all-volunteer ministry is beginning with a class in basic English instruction to begin on February 1st.  All classes will be held in the education rooms at Diamond United Methodist Church located at 519 N. Locust Street in Hazleton. While the primary focus of this class is persons whose native language is Spanish, anyone whose first language is not English and who wants to learn English is welcome to enroll.

Future plans include offering courses on citizenship and beginning computer skills.   A small computer center is being established with computers that have been donated, and an after-school homework assistance program for neighborhood children and youth will be developed as resources and personnel become available.

Volunteer opportunities are available for anyone interested in helping with this ministry by contacting the Diamond United Methodist Church office at 454-0992 for information.