Living What Pope Francis Modeled - Pope Francis’ papacy was defined by compassion for migrants and refugees and a strong, moral voice for their welfare and rights. The Migrant Ministry, in its various programs of accompaniment, immigration support, ESL, and distribution of clothing, shoes, and toiletries tries to live what Pope Francis not only proclaimed but also modeled. In our gatherings, we have reflected on his words, including the following:

“Hope is the push in the heart of those who leave their home, and sometimes their family and relatives - I am thinking of migrants - to find a better life, with more dignity for themselves and their loved ones... It's also the push in the heart of those who welcome: the desire to encounter, meet, dialogue... hope is the push to share the journey."

The current political situation is very difficult. This past week we said good bye to a migrant whom we have been accompanying as a ministry and who volunteered with us at the Centro for many months. He is here legally, awaiting his asylum hearing. The stress and uncertainty has been too much for him, his wife, and their young daughter. They have decided to leave the United States although they are not sure if they will return to Venezuela. Bidding adiós (go with God!) to our friend was difficult, and pushed us to work even harder for our brother and sister migrants.

As Pope Francis wrote, HOPE is the push. We continue to encounter, meet, dialogue… and share the journey.

WE HAVE AN URGENT NEED FOR BLANKETS, SHEETS, AND TOWELS. WE ARE ALSO SEEKING FINANCIAL DONATIONS FOR THE MIGRANTS’ LEGAL DEFENSE FUND - Please mark “Legal Defense Fund” on your donation.

Please continue to pray for our beloved migrant brothers and sisters.