Trinity, Houston came together on Sunday, September 6, for a joyful and meaningful celebration honoring the 30th anniversary of the Rev. Hannah Atkins Romero’s ordination to the priesthood. Atkins Romero, who has served as Trinity’s rector since 2007, made history in 1996 as the first woman ordained a priest in El Salvador.
Her anniversary was celebrated through a bilingual Latin American Music Mass filled with vibrant rhythms, prayer, and sacred music representing traditions from Latin America and its diaspora. The service became what Atkins Romero described as a “joyful protest,” celebrating the culture, history, dignity, and contributions of immigrant communities while offering prayers for migrants and all those experiencing fear, discrimination, and injustice.
Latin American protest music played an important role throughout the celebration. Its melodies and lyrics, born from communities that have sung through suffering, struggle, and hope, carried a powerful message of resistance and solidarity. Under the theme “Cuando el pobre crea en el pobre,” the congregation proclaimed through music that God’s love and inclusion remain stronger than fear and hate.
The Rt. Rev. Héctor Monterroso, Bishop Assistant joined the congregation as preacher and celebrant and welcomed 25 people into The Episcopal Church through confirmation, reception, and reaffirmation. The service also featured the premiere of two works commissioned for the occasion, “Trinity Cha-Cha-Cha” by Ernesto Vega and “Canto de Hannah”by Angela Ortiz, bringing together faith, culture, music, and community to honor Atkins Romero’s three decades of ministry.
Watch the full service on YouTube and read the Episcopal News Service story about the celebration
