The Rev. Maria D. Valenzuela Joins ELCA Multiultural

VALENZUELA NAMED DIRECTOR FOR HISPANIC MINISTRIES

The Rev. Maria D. Valenzuela has been named director for Hispanic and
leadership ministries in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's
Commission for Multicultural Ministries.  She has served as pastor for
Cristo Rey Centro Luterano, El Paso, Texas since 1990, and as the
Hispanic ministries coordinator for the ELCA's Rocky Mountain Synod
since 1992.  Valenzuela served on the commission's steering committee
in 1991.  "God has showered Maria with enormous gifts, talents and
energy.  We are blessed to have her work with us in this commission,"
said the Rev. Frederick E.N. Rajan, executive director for the
commission.  Valenzuela earned a master of divinity degree from
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Berkeley, Calif., in 1988.  She
assumes her new responsibilities Aug. 15, suceeding the Rev. Gregory
J. Villalon who is now director for multicultural leadership
development in the ELCA's Division for Ministry.

For information contact:
Ann Hafften, Director (773) 380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html