Responding to an influx of Hispanic immigrants to Denver in the late 1990s, then Archbishop of Denver, Charles J. Chaput, OFM Cap. and then Auxiliary Bishop, Rev. José Gómez (now Archbishop of Los Angeles, CA), met to envision a Hispanic Institute for Family and Pastoral Care. Established in 2003, this institute was named Centro San Juan Diego; a place that welcomes the Hispanic community and invites all members to become faithful, integrated leaders in both the Catholic Church and society.
The Catholic Church has led efforts to welcome and integrate immigrants into the life of the Church and society throughout American history. Centro San Juan Diego is proud to continue this heritage of removing barriers and adapt to immigrants’ changing needs. Now in its 19th year of operation, Centro San Juan Diego continues to provide the Hispanic community with a “home away from home,” serving 5,000 individuals annually.