Diocese of St. Augustine to host SEPI Regional Encuentro 2026

The Diocese of St. Augustine is hosting the 2026 SEPI Regional Encuentro from Sept. 23 to 26. Catholic leaders, including bishops, priests, religious, and lay leaders from across the Southeast, are gathering for the four-day event to discuss the future of Hispanic and Latino ministry in the Church.

The Southeast Pastoral Institute (SEPI) organizes this gathering every two years. SEPI and the Southeast Regional Office for Hispanic Ministry serve 30 dioceses across nine states. This year's meeting focuses on the theme "Artesanos de Esperanza • Communion Builders" and continues the implementation of the National Pastoral Plan from the U.S. bishops.

Participants will engage in prayer, formation, dialogue, and discernment to address pastoral challenges and share solutions. The Diocese of St. Augustine is hosting the event with support from its Office of Multicultural Ministry. Attendees intend to bring the knowledge and strengthened relationships gained during the meeting back to their local parishes and communities.