The contributions of Hispanic Catholics to the church and society show the beauty and excitement of their people and culture, but it can be messy and complicated at times.

The U.S. bishops initiated the Encuentro, which means “Encounter,” to better serve the growing Latin American community.

Only about 8 percent of teachers in Catholic schools are Hispanic, compared with 17 percent of students. Low salaries and a weak professional pipeline make it difficult to diversify the teaching staff.

Knowing that the future of the church will largely be in the hands of Latinos, it is paramount that Catholic schools help form them in the faith and help them become our future leaders.

Join America Media & The Catholic University of America as we host a national town hall on the future of Latinos and Catholic Education in the United States.