Inaugural Welcome Weekend for the Consulate of Costa Rica

Lula B. Sherman United Methodist Church (2214 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL 60201) is proud to announce its inaugural Welcome Weekend for the Consulate of Costa Rica, taking place July 11–12, 2026. Bringing together a coalition of faith, legal, and community partners, the two-day event is built around one unifying purpose: hospitality, dignity, and shared prosperity for immigrant and working families.

The weekend will feature three connected events: a real estate and immigration opportunity seminar on Saturday morning; a cultural worship celebration honoring Costa Rican and Garifuna heritage on Sunday; and the official ribbon-cutting and reception formally welcoming the Consulate of Costa Rica to its new home at Lula B. Sherman.

Saturday, July 11 — Real Estate & Immigration Opportunity Seminar | 10:00 AM

The weekend opens with a practical, community-centered seminar co-led by The Stoic Team and Samaritan for the Common Good at 2214 Ridge Ave., Evanston. Topics will include homeownership pathways for immigrant buyers, ITIN lending, credit-building, down-payment assistance programs, immigration status and real estate rights, and fraud prevention education targeting unauthorized “notario” practices. Licensed attorneys will present all legal content. Spanish interpretation will be provided throughout. Free consultation sign-ups will be available at the close of the seminar for attendees seeking individualized guidance.

Sunday, July 12 — Cultural Worship Celebration | 11:30 AM

Sunday’s worship service will center the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica and the Garifuna people — the Afro-Indigenous community with deep roots along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast in the Limón region. The service will weave together music, scripture, and narrated cultural reflection, honoring the history and contributions of both communities. All are welcome at 2214 Ridge Ave., Evanston. The worship celebration represents Lula B. Sherman’s commitment to being a cultural bridge — a historically Black congregation that recognizes shared struggle and shared joy across the African diaspora.

Sunday, July 12 — Consulate Ribbon-Cutting & Reception | ~1:00 PM

Immediately following worship, Lula B. Sherman will host the official ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the Consulate of Costa Rica’s new home within the church at 2214 Ridge Ave. A dignitary program will include remarks from Pastor McLeod, Consul General Peter LoPresti, and invited civic leaders representing the City of Evanston, Cook County, and the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church. A reception featuring cultural music and Costa Rican and Caribbean refreshments will follow.