A Most Blessed Opening of Our New Center - On January 20, opening day of our new migrant center (Centro San Bernardino), the volunteers arrived early, hugged each other, and expressed how glad they were to be together again serving the migrants. Rooms were stocked, breakfast prepared, and registration begun.

But before we started, the volunteers gathered in a room and Father Carl and Father Vittorio led us in a beautiful blessing written by Father Carl - a meaningful start to a packed morning in which 210 migrants were served.

BLESSING FOR THE OPENING OF CENTRO SAN BERNARDINO

For this place we dedicate today - that it may be a place made holy by welcome, compassion, and service, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For every door and hallway, every room and table - that they may be spaces of peace, nourishment and dignity, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For all who will come and have traveled far - who carry stories of heartbreak, courage, and promise - may they find rest, care, and hearts and ears that listen, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For mothers and fathers, for families seeking safety and opportunity – strengthen them, calm their fears, and renew their courage, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For all separated from loved ones - may the ache of distance be eased here, and loneliness met with community, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For all facing legal or social obstacles – grant them wisdom, fairness and perseverance, and companions to accompany them in times of need, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For every volunteer, advocate, and minister of compassion and care, keep our hearts gentle, our spirits sustained in these weary times, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For all who give of their time here, that we may not only serve but also continue to be transformed by the lives and gifts of those we welcome, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

For Jesus the migrant Messiah - who had no place to rest His head, who crossed borders of earth and heaven to bring God’s love to all, may His presence bless this ministry and all who enter here, we ask - God of welcome, bless us in our new space.

Any questions? Please email us at [email protected].