Parish representatives carry in parish flags before the start of Mass at Encuentro Hispano (Hispanic Encounter) Nov. 10 in the Hall of Industry at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in Little Rock.
With the theme “Why Catholic?” 1,500 Hispanic Catholics from around the state gathered in Little Rock to celebrate their faith and culture. Father Tom Stehlik, CM, pastor of St. Anne Church in Little Rock, was the main speaker and celebrated the Mass. Priests from Texarkana, Hot Springs, Fort Smith, Monticello, Rogers and Springdale also attended the festival.
Other activities included an art show, visit from the Guatemalan consulate in Houston, presentations by local priests, a health fair and talent show. The diocesan-sponsored festival is held annually in Little Rock.
