First Female Hispanic Priest Ordained at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Norristown
Yesenia “Jessie” Alejandro was ordained as the first female Hispanic priest in Pennsylvania’s Episcopal Church during a ceremony held on October 9 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Norristown, writes Jesenia De Moya Correa for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
“I’m joyful that we have accomplished this historic achievement, because we can now bring hope and representation to our community as the Hispanic priest,” said 49-year-old Alejandro.
Alejandro was ordained as a deacon on December 21. She was also reassigned from St. Mary’s Episcopal Church to St. John’s, where she primarily served a Spanish-speaking congregation.
During her transition from deacon to priesthood, Alejandro helped local communities with food distribution as well as providing door-to-door spiritual and emotional support during the coronavirus pandemic.
She also created two ministries in Norristown dedicated to women’s and men’s issues and headed the creation of a support network for Philadelphia area Guatemalans with relatives in Central America.
Now, she is ready to take on her new role.
“I know we have a lot of work in our communities looking forward, because there’s a great need at this time,” said Alejandro.
Read more about Yesenia Alejandro at The Philadelphia Inquirer by clicking here.
You Might Also Like
Singing at Grandfather’s Funeral a Life-Changing Experience for New Beth Sholom Cantor
Kathy Barnette is First Black Woman to Run for Congress in Pennsylvania’s Fourth District
Stay Connected, Stay Informed
Subscribe for great stories in your community!
"*" indicates required fields
