(This article originally appeared in the TAU-USA Summer 2025  Issue #116)

by Willie Guadalupe, OFS

Multicultural Coordinator

Multicultural relationships involve partners from different cultural backgrounds and can present challenges and opportunities. Effective communication is very important, as language barriers and different cultural expressions can complicate relations. You need to be able to understand the differences. Partners may face differences in standards, beliefs, and behaviors, which require time, patience, and effort. These relationships can lead to a rich exchange of ideas and cultural norms, fostering personal growth for those involved. Overall multicultural relationships can be rewarding but as stated they require patience, understanding, and open communication to be successful.

Multicultural relationships are justice issues that seek the good of the other person(s). As Franciscans, we are known for our dedication to justice. We strive to bring people together in a society that is fair (or just). Each person needs to feel welcomed to create a diverse OFS community. Each person needs to know that their culture is important to others. When we take the time to  connect with people from other cultures, we break down  barriers and challenges that may exist.

The link between justice and relationships moves us to develop personal viewpoints and actions that build on relationships. We cannot tolerate actions that deny basic human dignity to anyone involved. Problems become opportunities when the right people work together.

OFS Rule, Article #15 Let them individually and collectively be in the forefront in promoting justice by the testimony of their human lives and their courageous initiatives.

Especially in the field of public life, we should make definite choices in harmony with our faith. Immigrants or minority groups who speak a different language may face challenges in communicating their ideas, needs, or concerns. This can create feelings of isolation and marginalization, preventing individuals from fully participating in society.

We need to address the language challenges inherent in relating to other cultures. Some may speak English, may read English, may write English, but many may not. We need to be considerate of that and know that many times they will need to receive opportunities in their preparation and instruction in formation in their native language. Even for those who may be bilingual, their native language may be their preferred language for worship, or for prayer, because it is their love language.

Almighty God, through your Holy Spirit you

created unity in the midst of diversity.

We acknowledge that human diversity is an

expression of your manifold love for your creation.

We confess that in our brokenness as human

beings we turn diversity into a source of

alienation, injustice, oppression, and wounding.

Empower us to recognize and celebrate

differences as your great gift to the human family.

Enable us to be the architects of understanding,

of respect and love.

Please fill our hearts with your Love so that your

light may shine through each one of us.

AMEN

From jesuitresource.org

Author Unknown; modified by Wilie Guadalupe