Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Sunday, August 1 & Sunday, August 8, 2021
“Put on the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth.”
– Eph 4:24
“Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life.”
– John 6:27
We are familiar with the scripture passage “I am the bread of life.” The readings for this week and next are focused on bread… Bread sent as manna in the desert, bread that gives eternal life. But do we think about the commitment we make if we eat this bread? Or do we eat it and think the only response we need is gratitude and praise? In offering us this bread, we are asked to enter into relationship with God (trust) and God’s creation (compassion). Eating the bread of life is more than an invitation to life eternal, it is an invitation to be life to God’s creation around us. Scripture tells us how to be life “…be kind to one another, compassionate,” Eph 4:32 Who in God’s creation needs our compassion?
Immigrants and refugees are in great need. Many were brought here as children and as young adults they face uncertainty and deportation from the only country they have known. If we have accepted God’s gift of bread, then we have accepted God’s call to be bread for others. Learn how to support immigrants in need, especially DACA: unitedwedream.org/2021/07/top-5-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-texas-case-on-daca/?source=toolkit
– Eph 4:24
“Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life.”
– John 6:27
We are familiar with the scripture passage “I am the bread of life.” The readings for this week and next are focused on bread… Bread sent as manna in the desert, bread that gives eternal life. But do we think about the commitment we make if we eat this bread? Or do we eat it and think the only response we need is gratitude and praise? In offering us this bread, we are asked to enter into relationship with God (trust) and God’s creation (compassion). Eating the bread of life is more than an invitation to life eternal, it is an invitation to be life to God’s creation around us. Scripture tells us how to be life “…be kind to one another, compassionate,” Eph 4:32 Who in God’s creation needs our compassion?
Immigrants and refugees are in great need. Many were brought here as children and as young adults they face uncertainty and deportation from the only country they have known. If we have accepted God’s gift of bread, then we have accepted God’s call to be bread for others. Learn how to support immigrants in need, especially DACA: unitedwedream.org/2021/07/top-5-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-texas-case-on-daca/?source=toolkit
We have two different Faith Journeys that reflect on today’s Gospel…
Today's Gospel reading is the familiar story of the loaves and fishes. There are two views of that day's events: The first is that a miracle occurred when Jesus increased the crowd's small amount of food. The second is that the miracle happened when people shared their food. Which story speaks to you? In both accounts all were fed and no one was left hungry. Could this happen today? Yes! When we open our hearts to share, everyone's needs are met and there is no scarcity. All of our neighbors, particularly our immigrants and refugee brothers and sisters, need us to have open hearts and minds. This Gospel calls us to share our "loaves and fishes" with our neighbors. Let's work to end hunger today! Will you help our sisters and brothers?
Bread.org/hunger
Chicagosfoodbank.org
“When Jesus raised his eyes and saw that a large crowd was coming to him, he said to Philip, ‘Where can we buy enough food for them to eat?” He said this to test him, because he himself knew what he was going to do. Philip answered him, ‘Two hundred days’ wages worth of food would not be enough for each of them to have a little.’ One of his disciples, Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, said to him, ‘There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?’ – John 6:5-9
Today’s Gospel connects intimately with much of the current attitude surrounding immigrants and refugees here in the United States: We have a lot of ‘Philips’ who say, “There are too many of them, and if they come in, there won’t be enough for us – we don’t have enough for them,” and truly, the numbers of immigrants and refugees in need worldwide are staggering and overwhelming. But Jesus is testing us here, too. As our friend Fr. Greg Boyle likes to remind us: “There is no us and them – just us.” Our challenge instead is to take Andrew’s approach: “Well, we don’t have everything that’s needed, but we have something to offer to start with…” We are called to offer what we have, with faith that Jesus will find a way for our gifts to multiply so that all may be satisfied, not just with bread, but with safety and security in order to be able to live the kinds of lives that God intended us for.
Today's Gospel reading is the familiar story of the loaves and fishes. There are two views of that day's events: The first is that a miracle occurred when Jesus increased the crowd's small amount of food. The second is that the miracle happened when people shared their food. Which story speaks to you? In both accounts all were fed and no one was left hungry. Could this happen today? Yes! When we open our hearts to share, everyone's needs are met and there is no scarcity. All of our neighbors, particularly our immigrants and refugee brothers and sisters, need us to have open hearts and minds. This Gospel calls us to share our "loaves and fishes" with our neighbors. Let's work to end hunger today! Will you help our sisters and brothers?
Bread.org/hunger
Chicagosfoodbank.org
“When Jesus raised his eyes and saw that a large crowd was coming to him, he said to Philip, ‘Where can we buy enough food for them to eat?” He said this to test him, because he himself knew what he was going to do. Philip answered him, ‘Two hundred days’ wages worth of food would not be enough for each of them to have a little.’ One of his disciples, Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, said to him, ‘There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?’ – John 6:5-9
Today’s Gospel connects intimately with much of the current attitude surrounding immigrants and refugees here in the United States: We have a lot of ‘Philips’ who say, “There are too many of them, and if they come in, there won’t be enough for us – we don’t have enough for them,” and truly, the numbers of immigrants and refugees in need worldwide are staggering and overwhelming. But Jesus is testing us here, too. As our friend Fr. Greg Boyle likes to remind us: “There is no us and them – just us.” Our challenge instead is to take Andrew’s approach: “Well, we don’t have everything that’s needed, but we have something to offer to start with…” We are called to offer what we have, with faith that Jesus will find a way for our gifts to multiply so that all may be satisfied, not just with bread, but with safety and security in order to be able to live the kinds of lives that God intended us for.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Sunday, July 25, 2021
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Sunday, July 18, 2021
“Woe to the shepherds who mislead and scatter the flock of my pasture.” – Jeremiah 23:1
What scatters people from their homelands? What drives thousands of immigrants and refugees to leave the only home country they have ever known? More than likely, it is war, poverty, violence, and/or persecution. For those immigrants and refugees who have suffered under the most horrible of conditions, many look to our country as a place of refuge, a place of verdant pastures. Our God calls us to be shepherds of his flock and to take care of those most in need. Please hear the cry from those persecuted immigrants and refugees at this nation’s borders and consider how you can help. They need our advocacy, support, and prayers. Might we be the shepherds to give our beloved vulnerable brothers and sisters rest and repose?
What scatters people from their homelands? What drives thousands of immigrants and refugees to leave the only home country they have ever known? More than likely, it is war, poverty, violence, and/or persecution. For those immigrants and refugees who have suffered under the most horrible of conditions, many look to our country as a place of refuge, a place of verdant pastures. Our God calls us to be shepherds of his flock and to take care of those most in need. Please hear the cry from those persecuted immigrants and refugees at this nation’s borders and consider how you can help. They need our advocacy, support, and prayers. Might we be the shepherds to give our beloved vulnerable brothers and sisters rest and repose?
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Sunday, July 11, 2021
“Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” – Mark 6:11
We are the place that does not welcome or listen to them…to immigrant children looking to escape the violence that threatens their lives. One in every three migrant and asylum-seekers from Central America and Mexico is a child, over half are unaccompanied. Eighty percent of them are trying to reach relatives residing in the U.S. Unaccompanied Mexican children were returned to Mexico more than 22 times as often as they were transferred to Office of Refugee Resettlement after being apprehended by the US Border Patrol, without the legally required screenings to insure they were not returning to harm or human trafficking.
Pushed Into Harms Way - PDF: bit.ly/3hmjBcN (amnesty.org) Be a testimony to welcome and listening. Read the above document and learn the key recommendations to the U.S. and Mexican governments (pages 10 and 47). Write or call your representatives and demand these actions.
We are the place that does not welcome or listen to them…to immigrant children looking to escape the violence that threatens their lives. One in every three migrant and asylum-seekers from Central America and Mexico is a child, over half are unaccompanied. Eighty percent of them are trying to reach relatives residing in the U.S. Unaccompanied Mexican children were returned to Mexico more than 22 times as often as they were transferred to Office of Refugee Resettlement after being apprehended by the US Border Patrol, without the legally required screenings to insure they were not returning to harm or human trafficking.
Pushed Into Harms Way - PDF: bit.ly/3hmjBcN (amnesty.org) Be a testimony to welcome and listening. Read the above document and learn the key recommendations to the U.S. and Mexican governments (pages 10 and 47). Write or call your representatives and demand these actions.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Sunday, July 4, 2021
"Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she
With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send
these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my
lamp beside the golden door.”
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she
With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send
these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my
lamp beside the golden door.”
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
June 27, 2021
The Myth: Immigrants are coming to the U.S. to obtain welfare and other benefits.
The Facts: Most immigrants who come to this country work hard to take care of their families and themselves. Many studies have shown that on average immigrants pay more in taxes than they receive in benefits, meaning the taxes they pay more than cover the cost of things like public education and healthcare.
With very few exceptions (such as access to medical care for victims of human trafficking) undocumented immigrants are not eliglble for federal public benefits such as Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare and food stamps. In addition, most immigrants with lawful status are not entitled to these benefits until they have been in the country for five years or longer. This means that Social Security is often being deducted from immigrants paychecks but they cannot access those benefits. According to a 2018 study by the Cato Institute, eligible immigrants use 27% fewer benefits relative to U.S. natives of similar incomes and ages.
Source: 2019 Anti-Defamation League, www.adl.org
The Facts: Most immigrants who come to this country work hard to take care of their families and themselves. Many studies have shown that on average immigrants pay more in taxes than they receive in benefits, meaning the taxes they pay more than cover the cost of things like public education and healthcare.
With very few exceptions (such as access to medical care for victims of human trafficking) undocumented immigrants are not eliglble for federal public benefits such as Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare and food stamps. In addition, most immigrants with lawful status are not entitled to these benefits until they have been in the country for five years or longer. This means that Social Security is often being deducted from immigrants paychecks but they cannot access those benefits. According to a 2018 study by the Cato Institute, eligible immigrants use 27% fewer benefits relative to U.S. natives of similar incomes and ages.
Source: 2019 Anti-Defamation League, www.adl.org
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for June 20, 2021
“A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm.” – Mark 4:37-39
Over 20,000 migrants and refugees have perished in the Mediterranean Sea since 2014, desperately fleeing their homes and trying to find safety on new soil, only to never reach it. ‘Teacher, don’t you care that we are perishing?’ This might lead some to ask how God could allow this to happen, but others look instead to the words of St. Teresa of Avila: “Christ has no body but yours; no hands, no feet on earth but yours.” What international humanitarian policies can we create? What rescue can we provide? What aid can we administer? What help can we give? Learn more about what the OSP Immigrant & Refugee Ministry does and how you can get involved. Lord, may we truly bring about your kingdom of love here on earth, using our hands and feet as you would. Amen.
Over 20,000 migrants and refugees have perished in the Mediterranean Sea since 2014, desperately fleeing their homes and trying to find safety on new soil, only to never reach it. ‘Teacher, don’t you care that we are perishing?’ This might lead some to ask how God could allow this to happen, but others look instead to the words of St. Teresa of Avila: “Christ has no body but yours; no hands, no feet on earth but yours.” What international humanitarian policies can we create? What rescue can we provide? What aid can we administer? What help can we give? Learn more about what the OSP Immigrant & Refugee Ministry does and how you can get involved. Lord, may we truly bring about your kingdom of love here on earth, using our hands and feet as you would. Amen.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture Connections for Sunday, June 13, 2021
“Thus says the Lord GOD: I, too, will pluck from the crest of the cedar the highest branch. From the top, a tender shoot I will break off and transplant on a high, lofty mountain. It shall put forth branches and bear fruit, and become a majestic cedar.” – Ezekiel 17:22-14
The concept of transplanting is well known to gardeners, organ donor recipients, and anyone who has had to move their family from one place to another, be it for a new job or to escape persecution and violence. We never know ahead of time if the plant will flourish, if the body will accept the donated organ, or if a new city/country will be an inviting place where the family can thrive. Nonetheless the move is made in hope--hope that abundant life will prevail through the mercy of our God. May we always be a hope-filled people, anticipating the promise of the resurrection and new life, especially for our immigrant brothers and sisters.
The concept of transplanting is well known to gardeners, organ donor recipients, and anyone who has had to move their family from one place to another, be it for a new job or to escape persecution and violence. We never know ahead of time if the plant will flourish, if the body will accept the donated organ, or if a new city/country will be an inviting place where the family can thrive. Nonetheless the move is made in hope--hope that abundant life will prevail through the mercy of our God. May we always be a hope-filled people, anticipating the promise of the resurrection and new life, especially for our immigrant brothers and sisters.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture Connections for Sunday, June 6, 2021
“‘Go into the city and a man will meet you, carrying a jar of water. Follow him. Wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’” – Mark 14:13-14
What must it have been like to try to find a place to celebrate such an important feast in an unknown city? Where do you go? Who do you turn to? Who will help you, and offer you hospitality? Immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers around the world continue to look for a safe place to celebrate weddings, the birthdays of their children, and their important holy feasts, like Passover, Easter, or Eid al-Fitr. All of these were celebrated around the world within the past six weeks, and millions spent these holy days in a place away from home--in refugee camps and border detention facilities. May we continue to open our hearts and our doors to our global neighbors in hospitality.
What must it have been like to try to find a place to celebrate such an important feast in an unknown city? Where do you go? Who do you turn to? Who will help you, and offer you hospitality? Immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers around the world continue to look for a safe place to celebrate weddings, the birthdays of their children, and their important holy feasts, like Passover, Easter, or Eid al-Fitr. All of these were celebrated around the world within the past six weeks, and millions spent these holy days in a place away from home--in refugee camps and border detention facilities. May we continue to open our hearts and our doors to our global neighbors in hospitality.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Sunday, May 30, 2021
Myth: Immigrants hurt our country financially by taking jobs and services without paying taxes
The Facts: Though some people claim that immigrant are taking job opportunities away from people born in the U.S., immigrants actually help to create new jobs. In addition to buying U.S. and local products, which helps create jobs, immigrants often start their own businesses. In fact, immigrants are twice as likely to start businesses as citizens both in the U.S. and companies owned by immigrants are more likely to hire employees than companies owned by native-born citizens. States with large numbers of immigrants report lower unemployment rates for everyone.
Immigrants collectively pay between $90 and $140 Billion each year in taxes, and a recent study found that undocumented immigrants alone pay approximately $11.64 Billion in taxes each year. Moreover, undocumented immigrants nationwide pay an estimated eight percent of their income in state and local taxes (their effective state and local tax rate), which is higher than the effective tax rate of the top one percent of all taxpayers in the U.S.
Everyone pays sales taxes on goods they purchase and property taxes on the homes they buy or rent, and more than half of all undocumented immigrant households file income tax returns using individual Tax Identification Numbers.
Source: 2019 Anti-Defamation League, www.adl.org
The Facts: Though some people claim that immigrant are taking job opportunities away from people born in the U.S., immigrants actually help to create new jobs. In addition to buying U.S. and local products, which helps create jobs, immigrants often start their own businesses. In fact, immigrants are twice as likely to start businesses as citizens both in the U.S. and companies owned by immigrants are more likely to hire employees than companies owned by native-born citizens. States with large numbers of immigrants report lower unemployment rates for everyone.
Immigrants collectively pay between $90 and $140 Billion each year in taxes, and a recent study found that undocumented immigrants alone pay approximately $11.64 Billion in taxes each year. Moreover, undocumented immigrants nationwide pay an estimated eight percent of their income in state and local taxes (their effective state and local tax rate), which is higher than the effective tax rate of the top one percent of all taxpayers in the U.S.
Everyone pays sales taxes on goods they purchase and property taxes on the homes they buy or rent, and more than half of all undocumented immigrant households file income tax returns using individual Tax Identification Numbers.
Source: 2019 Anti-Defamation League, www.adl.org
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture Connections for Sunday, May 23, 2021
“And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind…” – Acts 2:2
Pope Francis speaks about this scripture passage: “What does this image tell us? It makes us think of a powerful force that is not an end in itself, but effects change. Wind in fact brings change: warmth when it is cold, cool when it is hot, rain when the land is parched… this is the way it brings change. The Holy Spirit, on a very different level, does the same. He is the divine force that changes the world. The sequence reminded us of this: the Spirit is ‘in toil, comfort sweet; solace in the midst of wo e’. And so, we beseech him: ‘Heal our wounds, our strength renew; on our dryness pour your dew; wash the stains of guilt away’. The Spirit enters into situations and transforms them. The Spirit changes hearts and changes situations.” Santa Messa nella Solennità di Pentecoste (vatican.va) Pray for a change in hearts of those who do not welcome immigrants and refugees. Act so you might change situations of despair for them.
Pope Francis speaks about this scripture passage: “What does this image tell us? It makes us think of a powerful force that is not an end in itself, but effects change. Wind in fact brings change: warmth when it is cold, cool when it is hot, rain when the land is parched… this is the way it brings change. The Holy Spirit, on a very different level, does the same. He is the divine force that changes the world. The sequence reminded us of this: the Spirit is ‘in toil, comfort sweet; solace in the midst of wo e’. And so, we beseech him: ‘Heal our wounds, our strength renew; on our dryness pour your dew; wash the stains of guilt away’. The Spirit enters into situations and transforms them. The Spirit changes hearts and changes situations.” Santa Messa nella Solennità di Pentecoste (vatican.va) Pray for a change in hearts of those who do not welcome immigrants and refugees. Act so you might change situations of despair for them.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Myths and Facts about Immigrants and Immigration
Sunday, May 16, 2021
Myth: Immigrants bring crime and violence to our cities and towns
The Facts: Recently, public figures have claimed that immigrants are “killers” and "rapists,” bringing crime to the U.S. Study after study has shown, however, that immigrants—regardless of where they are from, what immigration status they hold, and how much education they have completed—are less likely than native-born citizens to commit crimes or become incarcerated. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, while the overall percentage of immigrants and the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. both increased sharply between 1990 and 2010, the violent crime rate in the U.S. during that time plummeted 45% and the property crime rate dropped by 42%. Studies have consistently found that immigrants are less likely to be incarcerated than native-born Americans and that there is a negative correlation between levels of immigration and crime rates. Other studies have in fact found that crime rates are lowest in states with the highest immigration growth rates, and that states with larger shares of undocumented immigrants tend to have lower crime rates than states with smaller shares.
Source: Anti-Defamation League, 2019
The Facts: Recently, public figures have claimed that immigrants are “killers” and "rapists,” bringing crime to the U.S. Study after study has shown, however, that immigrants—regardless of where they are from, what immigration status they hold, and how much education they have completed—are less likely than native-born citizens to commit crimes or become incarcerated. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, while the overall percentage of immigrants and the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. both increased sharply between 1990 and 2010, the violent crime rate in the U.S. during that time plummeted 45% and the property crime rate dropped by 42%. Studies have consistently found that immigrants are less likely to be incarcerated than native-born Americans and that there is a negative correlation between levels of immigration and crime rates. Other studies have in fact found that crime rates are lowest in states with the highest immigration growth rates, and that states with larger shares of undocumented immigrants tend to have lower crime rates than states with smaller shares.
Source: Anti-Defamation League, 2019
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture Connections for May 9, 2021
This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:12-13
Scripture Connections for May 9, 2021
This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:12-13
“...to lay down one’s life for one’s friends…” We know that Jesus’ words foreshadowed His own sacrifice on the cross for all of us: his loved ones, his friends. Manypeople might shrug this instruction off as “not applicable” -- when will I be asked to die for a loved one? Hopefully not ever. But what if there are other ways to “lay down our lives?” What if we could put down our own schedules, to-do lists or concerns, and place those aside so that we can fully greet another in solidarity and empathy? We could occasionally “lay down” the activities that we use to fill our time and instead pray for immigrants who are detained and treated inhumanely while applying for asylum, or those who are struggling in a new country. We could sign up for email alerts with the National Immigrant Justice Center to continue to learn more about immigration issues and policy, or take the opportunities to reach out to our legislators to speak out for immigrant and refugee rights. Lord Jesus, help us lay down our lives for our friends and neighbors: immigrants, refugees, and all those searching for a safe place to be and to live. Amen.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
May 2, 2021
“...and [Saul] reported to [the apostles] how he had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus.” – Acts 9: 27
“Children, let us love not in word or speech, but in deed and truth.” – 1 John 3:18
It’s fascinating to think back to Saul walking through the streets of Damascus over 2,000 years ago, but heartbreaking to think about what so many Syrian cities look like today after ten years of civil war. What can we do in the face of such destruction and hardship, with over 6 million Syrian refugees worldwide? We can love our brothers and sisters in deed and truth, as John reminds us in the second reading. We love when we get involved, like when we build relationships and cook with Dalya virtually in her Syrian Kitchen. We love when we learn more about the situation in Syria and the difficulties faced by those forced to flee. We love when we act and pray in solidarity with all forced to leave their homes. As we believe, so let us live. Amen. (worldvision.org/refugees-news-stories/syrian-refugee-crisis-facts)
May 2, 2021
“...and [Saul] reported to [the apostles] how he had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus.” – Acts 9: 27
“Children, let us love not in word or speech, but in deed and truth.” – 1 John 3:18
It’s fascinating to think back to Saul walking through the streets of Damascus over 2,000 years ago, but heartbreaking to think about what so many Syrian cities look like today after ten years of civil war. What can we do in the face of such destruction and hardship, with over 6 million Syrian refugees worldwide? We can love our brothers and sisters in deed and truth, as John reminds us in the second reading. We love when we get involved, like when we build relationships and cook with Dalya virtually in her Syrian Kitchen. We love when we learn more about the situation in Syria and the difficulties faced by those forced to flee. We love when we act and pray in solidarity with all forced to leave their homes. As we believe, so let us live. Amen. (worldvision.org/refugees-news-stories/syrian-refugee-crisis-facts)
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
April 25, 2021
“I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd.”
– John 10:16
The pandemic has certainly made it clear we are one flock, no matter who “belongs to this fold”. When one suffers, we all feel it. Who in our world suffers today? Who needs to be welcomed into God’s fold? Spend some time listening for the voice of the one shepherd. Pray for all who suffer. Pray that our words and actions echo God’s. Learn about ways to advocate for justice: Action Center - Catholic Charities USA
April 25, 2021
“I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd.”
– John 10:16
The pandemic has certainly made it clear we are one flock, no matter who “belongs to this fold”. When one suffers, we all feel it. Who in our world suffers today? Who needs to be welcomed into God’s fold? Spend some time listening for the voice of the one shepherd. Pray for all who suffer. Pray that our words and actions echo God’s. Learn about ways to advocate for justice: Action Center - Catholic Charities USA
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
April 18, 2021
“But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him.” 1 John 2:5a
If we’ve celebrated the Resurrection then we should be Hope and Resurrection to those around us. How are immigrants and refugees ‘crucified’ today? By conquering such ‘deaths’ through charity, justice and accompaniment, God’s love is perfected in them and in us!
One way to be Hope is through Centro de Trabajadores Unidos (CTU), a recipient of the Bishop program: Catholic Campaign for Human Development. CTU does amazing work in immigrant communities and also works with Midwest Immigration Bond Fund Coalition, a fund which posts bond for people held by ICE. Learn more and be God’s Love in the world: Mission & Vision of MIBFC — Midwest Immigration Bond Fund Coalition
April 18, 2021
“But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him.” 1 John 2:5a
If we’ve celebrated the Resurrection then we should be Hope and Resurrection to those around us. How are immigrants and refugees ‘crucified’ today? By conquering such ‘deaths’ through charity, justice and accompaniment, God’s love is perfected in them and in us!
One way to be Hope is through Centro de Trabajadores Unidos (CTU), a recipient of the Bishop program: Catholic Campaign for Human Development. CTU does amazing work in immigrant communities and also works with Midwest Immigration Bond Fund Coalition, a fund which posts bond for people held by ICE. Learn more and be God’s Love in the world: Mission & Vision of MIBFC — Midwest Immigration Bond Fund Coalition
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
April 11, 2021
“In this way we know that we love the children of God when we love God and obey his
commandments.” – 1 John 5:2
Today is the Sunday of Divine Mercy. God’s Mercy was given even when we crucified Jesus! There is no greater Mercy than God’s. Do we believe in that Mercy? Can we forgive ourselves if God does? Do we share that Mercy? Immigrants and refugees need our Mercy. Some are suffering egregious medical neglect and terrible conditions like rotten food, crowding during a pandemic, cold temperatures, and no hot water. Learn more and urge the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties to investigate their complaint and call on ICE to free these individuals immediately: visit bit.ly/3cWdtG0
April 11, 2021
“In this way we know that we love the children of God when we love God and obey his
commandments.” – 1 John 5:2
Today is the Sunday of Divine Mercy. God’s Mercy was given even when we crucified Jesus! There is no greater Mercy than God’s. Do we believe in that Mercy? Can we forgive ourselves if God does? Do we share that Mercy? Immigrants and refugees need our Mercy. Some are suffering egregious medical neglect and terrible conditions like rotten food, crowding during a pandemic, cold temperatures, and no hot water. Learn more and urge the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties to investigate their complaint and call on ICE to free these individuals immediately: visit bit.ly/3cWdtG0
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for February 7, 2020
“He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him.” – Mark 1:34
We don’t talk very much about demons in our day-to-day lives, which sometimes make scripture readings like Mark’s Gospel today hard to grasp and relate to. What are our demons? They are those fearful thoughts in our minds that terrorize and paralyze, untruths that flood our subconscious; they can include fear of the unknown, fear of the “other,” fear that if we open our doors or hearts to strangers, harm will come to us, or fear that we might lose what we have. Our demons can keep us rooted in fear which makes it difficult, if not impossible to take steps forward in love and compassion, as Jesus did time and time again. Lord Jesus, drive out our demons that stop us from loving as you do. Help us to welcome and aid immigrants and refugees, reaching out to them in love, solidarity, and compassion. Amen.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for January 31, 2020
We were called to listen to God as servants, and then change our ways to act for justice. Today we are reminded to trust in the authority of God’s word. Anxiety and judgement by the world may accompany your actions, but trust in God. Ask our new administration to: Rescind all Muslim/refugee/asylum bans and policies; resettle 100,000 refugees in FY21 with increases to follow; ensure sufficient appropriations to rebuild infrastructure. Loving God, help us to bring your compassion, fairness and morality to immigration and refugee policies in our country. Learn more at bit.ly/IICTransitionSummary.
“A new teaching with authority...” – Mark 1:27
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for January 24, 2020
Last week’s readings called us to listen to God as servants. Today we are reminded to change our ways and act, guided by God, bringing justice to the oppressed. As we start with a new administration, use this time to contact them and ask that they remove barriers to Family-Based Immigration and prioritize family unity. We are one family, under God, and we should speak out for those who are denied dignity. “Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior.” Psalm 25:4-6 Learn more at bit.ly/IICTransitionSummary.
“When God saw by their actions how they turned from their evil way...” Jon 3:10
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for January 17, 2020
Now is the time to act. This week the democratic process of the transfer of power will happen. It’s been surrounded by violence and untruths. Listen to God who has been speaking to you. Over the next several weeks we will give suggestions on how to act on behalf of immigrants and refugees. Your actions are to speak God’s words to the powers that be, much like God’s servant Martin Luther King, Jr. did across our nation. Do not harden your heart by thinking there is nothing you can do but use God’s words to move into action. Call this new administration asking them to prioritize immigrants and asylum seekers of color by addressing racism in the immigration system and to restore Temporary Protected Status for immigrants from African and Caribbean countries. Learn more at bit.ly/IICTransitionSummary.
“Speak for your servant is listening.” – 1 Sam 3:10
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for January 10, 2020
Earlier in today’s 1st Reading from Isaiah is the phrase “...until he (the Lord’s servant) establishes justice on the earth…” How we long for justice in our world! We see the lack of justice in news headlines every day, but we have a choice in how we respond. We can sit in the despair and be overwhelmed by injustice, or we can heed the Lord’s call to work for justice in our world. We can start by welcoming immigrants and refugees who arrive at our shores and borders, those who leave behind everything they know because they are confined by this injustice, this fear, this hopelessness in their home countries. May we not turn a blind eye to the suffering of our brothers and sisters born in a different land, under different circumstances. Let us be a light for the nations.
"I, the Lord, have called you for the victory of justice….a light for the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness.” – Isaiah 42:6-7
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for November 22, 2020
“‘Lord...When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’ And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:38-40
What ideas do the Works of Mercy conjure in our minds? For most, it’s giving food, water, or clothing to those in need, which is a noble act, no doubt. But how often do we pay attention to the other instructions? The way we welcome the stranger is as important as clothing the naked. Support Old St. Pat’s Immigrant & Refugee Ministry in their work of welcoming the stranger in our midst. We invite you to learn more about the refugee families we support as a parish, as well as actions you can take to make this country a more just place for all.
“For all of you are children of the light and children of the day. We are not of the night or of darkness.” – 1 Thess 5:5
Today’s readings refer to fear of the Lord, but it’s important to understand that phrase also means awe of the Lord. Those in fear cower and hide. The faithful are in awe… of God’s power, of the Lord’s love, of the Kingdom of Heaven. That awe moves us to act rather than wander in darkness, it prepares us to be ready for God, not to waste our time. It is also an awe that compels migrants to search for that which God has endowed them – dignity of life. Read their stories and be awed: justiceforimmigrants.org/faces-of-migration/stories-of-migration
Today’s readings refer to fear of the Lord, but it’s important to understand that phrase also means awe of the Lord. Those in fear cower and hide. The faithful are in awe… of God’s power, of the Lord’s love, of the Kingdom of Heaven. That awe moves us to act rather than wander in darkness, it prepares us to be ready for God, not to waste our time. It is also an awe that compels migrants to search for that which God has endowed them – dignity of life. Read their stories and be awed: justiceforimmigrants.org/faces-of-migration/stories-of-migration
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for November 15, 2020
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for November 8, 2020
“‘Lord, Lord, open the door for us!’ But he said in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” – Matthew 25:11-13
Lord,
Help us to stay alert and awake to hear the call of refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants who are constantly faced with injustice in our country and in our world. May we always hear and act on your call to love, even when we tire in the fight. Set our hearts ablaze with a passion for justice, and may we always have enough oil to keep this fire burning.
Amen!
Help us to stay alert and awake to hear the call of refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants who are constantly faced with injustice in our country and in our world. May we always hear and act on your call to love, even when we tire in the fight. Set our hearts ablaze with a passion for justice, and may we always have enough oil to keep this fire burning.
Amen!
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for November 1, 2020
“Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.” Mt 5:4-6
“Thus says the Lord: ‘You shall not molest or oppress an alien, for you were once aliens yourselves in the land of Egypt. You shall not wrong any widow or orphan. If ever you wrong them and they cry out to me, I will surely hear their cry.'” – Exodus 22:20-21
“...one of them, a scholar of the law, tested him by asking, ‘Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?’ He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” – Matthew 22:35-39
“...one of them, a scholar of the law, tested him by asking, ‘Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?’ He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” – Matthew 22:35-39
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for October 25, 2020
Too often in our world, throughout history to the present moment, humankind becomes entangled in the letter of the law. Those “letters,” that wording, become ways for us to rationalize withholding human rights from groups of people, especially immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees: aliens in a foreign land. But God’s law is clear. Jesus’ message is clear. They are our neighbors, and God surely hears their cries. May we truly adopt hearts of love, so that our laws might build the Kingdom of God on earth.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for October 18, 2020
“We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ” – 1 Thes 1:2
One of the groups that work tirelessly in support of the immigrants and refugees is the Immigration Ministry Office of the Archdiocese. They are also a resource for our OSP Immigration and Refugee Ministry (IRM). Please consider supporting them through their “Keep Hope Alive 2020” Virtual Benefit this October 29, when they will recognize Old St. Pat’s with their Emmaus award. Visit bit.ly/keephopealive-2020. We give thanks to God for them and for all of you who keep the immigrants and refugees in your prayers.
Are you interested in joining our OSP IRM? Contact Kayla Jackson at kaylaj@oldstpats.org.
Are you interested in joining our OSP IRM? Contact Kayla Jackson at kaylaj@oldstpats.org.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for October 11, 2020
“‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?’” - Matthew 22:12
We are all invited into the Kingdom of Heaven but many people misunderstand this idea and think of it merely as ‘we are all invited into heaven--how lovely.’ But the Kingdom of Heaven is not about eternal life with God--it is also about the fulfillment of God’s will on earth. Like the poor guy the servants found on the street and invited to the banquet, we need to do more than just show up. Rather, we have to come prepared--prepared to fully participate in God’s Kingdom of Heaven on earth by participating in its creation, by bringing about justice for all people. How do we start? By using what the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops call “The Two feet of Love in Action:” Charitable Works and Social Justice:
- Let your elected representatives know that you welcome refugees in your city, your state, your country, and that you disapprove of the administration’s refugee quota (cap) of only 15,000 for 2021 (the lowest it has been since the refugee program was created in 1980).
- Share your time and resources with organizations like the Old St. Pat’s Immigrant and Refugee Ministry who support refugee families here in Chicago.
- VOTE.
We are all invited into the Kingdom of Heaven but many people misunderstand this idea and think of it merely as ‘we are all invited into heaven--how lovely.’ But the Kingdom of Heaven is not about eternal life with God--it is also about the fulfillment of God’s will on earth. Like the poor guy the servants found on the street and invited to the banquet, we need to do more than just show up. Rather, we have to come prepared--prepared to fully participate in God’s Kingdom of Heaven on earth by participating in its creation, by bringing about justice for all people. How do we start? By using what the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops call “The Two feet of Love in Action:” Charitable Works and Social Justice:
- Let your elected representatives know that you welcome refugees in your city, your state, your country, and that you disapprove of the administration’s refugee quota (cap) of only 15,000 for 2021 (the lowest it has been since the refugee program was created in 1980).
- Share your time and resources with organizations like the Old St. Pat’s Immigrant and Refugee Ministry who support refugee families here in Chicago.
- VOTE.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for October 4, 2020
"This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and acquire his inheritance.’” Matthew 21:38
Have we ever stopped to wonder why so many in our country do not welcome the immigrants? What is it about immigrants that threatens them? What are they afraid of? Clearly they believe they will lose something by welcoming immigrants. Or maybe they believe, as the tenants of the Gospel did, that what is due the immigrants will become theirs. Immigrants and refugees bring hope and determination. They bring hard work and dedication. And according to the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition, they create
new businesses and job opportunities: ibic.us/immigration-fact-sheet
The Gospel reminds us to welcome them, and that together, as one family, we will inherit God’s goodness. Pray for not only the immigrants and refugees, but also for the ‘tenants’ of our country who live in fear and do not recognize the shared inheritance with immigrants and refugees.
Have we ever stopped to wonder why so many in our country do not welcome the immigrants? What is it about immigrants that threatens them? What are they afraid of? Clearly they believe they will lose something by welcoming immigrants. Or maybe they believe, as the tenants of the Gospel did, that what is due the immigrants will become theirs. Immigrants and refugees bring hope and determination. They bring hard work and dedication. And according to the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition, they create
new businesses and job opportunities: ibic.us/immigration-fact-sheet
The Gospel reminds us to welcome them, and that together, as one family, we will inherit God’s goodness. Pray for not only the immigrants and refugees, but also for the ‘tenants’ of our country who live in fear and do not recognize the shared inheritance with immigrants and refugees.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for September 27, 2020
“Do nothing out of selfishness... rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also for those of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ, founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, has been a guest speaker at Old St. Pat’s a number of times in the past few years, and his core message speaks to OSP’s vision of Radical Inclusivity: “There is no ‘us’ and ‘them,’ – only ‘us.’” Jesus worked to dissolve barriers between people and to teach this same idea: it’s just ‘us.’ We divide and separate so much in our society: we use race, gender, socio-economic status, ethnicity, citizenship... all of these are used to distinguish between ‘us’ and ‘them.’ So much of the animosity toward immigrants and asylum seekers in this country seems to come from a place of fear in regard to our own self-interest: “If all of them come over here, there won’t be enough (jobs, food, housing, medical care…) for us.” St. Paul reminds us of Jesus’ radical inclusivity in the way we look out for the interests of others, and to avoid selfishness. How might we do this better as individuals? As a country? As a Church?
Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ, founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, has been a guest speaker at Old St. Pat’s a number of times in the past few years, and his core message speaks to OSP’s vision of Radical Inclusivity: “There is no ‘us’ and ‘them,’ – only ‘us.’” Jesus worked to dissolve barriers between people and to teach this same idea: it’s just ‘us.’ We divide and separate so much in our society: we use race, gender, socio-economic status, ethnicity, citizenship... all of these are used to distinguish between ‘us’ and ‘them.’ So much of the animosity toward immigrants and asylum seekers in this country seems to come from a place of fear in regard to our own self-interest: “If all of them come over here, there won’t be enough (jobs, food, housing, medical care…) for us.” St. Paul reminds us of Jesus’ radical inclusivity in the way we look out for the interests of others, and to avoid selfishness. How might we do this better as individuals? As a country? As a Church?
“Are you envious because I am generous?
Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” - Mt 20:16
Today’s Gospel tells a wonderful story about work and workers. Images of immigrant workers come to mind as we listen: groups of workers waiting to be hired, hard working people heading out to the field to do what others might avoid doing. The United States needs immigrant workers, especially as the ‘baby boomers’ retire and younger workers have fewer children to add to the workforce. Watch Our Future Together: How Immigrants Reshape Our Workforce (https://youtu.be/s89sC1RYl6k) to learn more about the importance of welcoming immigrants to our workforce. Then ask your representative to increase the number of work visas to allow more immigrants to help.
Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” - Mt 20:16
Today’s Gospel tells a wonderful story about work and workers. Images of immigrant workers come to mind as we listen: groups of workers waiting to be hired, hard working people heading out to the field to do what others might avoid doing. The United States needs immigrant workers, especially as the ‘baby boomers’ retire and younger workers have fewer children to add to the workforce. Watch Our Future Together: How Immigrants Reshape Our Workforce (https://youtu.be/s89sC1RYl6k) to learn more about the importance of welcoming immigrants to our workforce. Then ask your representative to increase the number of work visas to allow more immigrants to help.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for September 20, 2020
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for September 13, 2020
“Could anyone nourish anger against another and expect healing from the Lord? Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins?” Sirach 28: 3-4
The topic of Immigration garners a lot of anger in our country, as is evident from so much of the political rhetoric we hear about jobs, walls, and ‘legal pathways.’ Some might respond to Sirach’s admonition with this rebuttal: “Immigrants are not like me – I’m a legal citizen. I belong here.” But what are they choosing not to see? The human being who wants her children to grow up in safety? The human being who hopes to escape his life of poverty so that he can provide for his family? The human being who hopes to live their life in peace, without fear? That sounds like all of us. Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins?
The topic of Immigration garners a lot of anger in our country, as is evident from so much of the political rhetoric we hear about jobs, walls, and ‘legal pathways.’ Some might respond to Sirach’s admonition with this rebuttal: “Immigrants are not like me – I’m a legal citizen. I belong here.” But what are they choosing not to see? The human being who wants her children to grow up in safety? The human being who hopes to escape his life of poverty so that he can provide for his family? The human being who hopes to live their life in peace, without fear? That sounds like all of us. Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins?
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for September 6, 2020
LOVE. What does Love look like to the immigrant and refugee?
In our country we separate parents from children, hold them in cages, deport COVID-19 infected people back to nations at risk, reduce refugee admittance, tell asylum seekers to return at a later date…
This is not LOVE.
“We call upon all people of good will, but Catholics especially, to welcome the newcomers in their neighborhoods and schools, in their places of work and worship, with heartfelt hospitality, openness, and eagerness both to help and to learn from our brothers and sisters of whatever religion, ethnicity, or background.” (Welcoming the Stranger Among Us: Unity in Diversity, A Statement of the U.S. Catholic Bishops) Join Old St. Pat’s Immigrant and Refugee Rights Committee to learn how you can be God’s Love to the immigrant and refugees in our midst, our neighbors. (Contact: Kayla Jackson, OSP Liaison, kaylaj@oldstpats.org)
In our country we separate parents from children, hold them in cages, deport COVID-19 infected people back to nations at risk, reduce refugee admittance, tell asylum seekers to return at a later date…
This is not LOVE.
“We call upon all people of good will, but Catholics especially, to welcome the newcomers in their neighborhoods and schools, in their places of work and worship, with heartfelt hospitality, openness, and eagerness both to help and to learn from our brothers and sisters of whatever religion, ethnicity, or background.” (Welcoming the Stranger Among Us: Unity in Diversity, A Statement of the U.S. Catholic Bishops) Join Old St. Pat’s Immigrant and Refugee Rights Committee to learn how you can be God’s Love to the immigrant and refugees in our midst, our neighbors. (Contact: Kayla Jackson, OSP Liaison, kaylaj@oldstpats.org)
“’You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no evil to the neighbor; hence, love is the fulfillment of the law.” Rom 13:10
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for August 30, 2020
“When an alien resides with you in your land, do not mistreat such a one.” Lv 19:33
Myth: Immigrants are overrunning our country, and most are here illegally.
Fact: It is true that there are more immigrants living in the U.S. than ever before; however, the percentage of immigrants in the overall population is not much different than many other times throughout our history. Today immigrants make up
approximately 13.5% of the total U.S. population. This is approximately the same percentage as the same period in the
20th century (12-15%).
More than 60% of immigrants in the U.S. today have lived here for at least 15 years, and the large majority (76%) of immigrants have lawful status. Of the approximately 44 million immigrants in the U.S. in 2016, about 20 million (approximately 45%) were naturalized citizens.
Together these groups made up the remaining 55% of immigrants:
- lawful permanent residents (sometimes referred to as green card holders),
- people in the U.S. on temporary visas (including student and work visas, refugees and people seeking asylum) and
- undocumented immigrants
In 2016, there were 10.7 million undocumented immigrants living in the U.S., or less than 3.5 percent of the nation's population. This represents a significant decrease (13%) from the 12.2 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. in 2007, and is the lowest total since 2004. (2019 Anti-Defamation League, www.adl.org)
For more information on Catholic Social Teaching on Immigration visit www.usccb.org/committees/migration/immigration
Myth: Immigrants are overrunning our country, and most are here illegally.
Fact: It is true that there are more immigrants living in the U.S. than ever before; however, the percentage of immigrants in the overall population is not much different than many other times throughout our history. Today immigrants make up
approximately 13.5% of the total U.S. population. This is approximately the same percentage as the same period in the
20th century (12-15%).
More than 60% of immigrants in the U.S. today have lived here for at least 15 years, and the large majority (76%) of immigrants have lawful status. Of the approximately 44 million immigrants in the U.S. in 2016, about 20 million (approximately 45%) were naturalized citizens.
Together these groups made up the remaining 55% of immigrants:
- lawful permanent residents (sometimes referred to as green card holders),
- people in the U.S. on temporary visas (including student and work visas, refugees and people seeking asylum) and
- undocumented immigrants
In 2016, there were 10.7 million undocumented immigrants living in the U.S., or less than 3.5 percent of the nation's population. This represents a significant decrease (13%) from the 12.2 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. in 2007, and is the lowest total since 2004. (2019 Anti-Defamation League, www.adl.org)
For more information on Catholic Social Teaching on Immigration visit www.usccb.org/committees/migration/immigration
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for August 23, 2020
“And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church... whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven.” Matthew 16: 18-19
What are Peter’s successors binding on earth? How is our Church being built? In Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation “Gaudete et Exsultate” [on the call to holiness in today’s world] (March 2018), he asks us to turn inward to our hearts and outward to our actions. He says:
Our defense of the innocent unborn, for example, needs to be clear, firm and passionate, for at stake is the dignity of a human life, which is always sacred and demands love for each person, regardless of his or her stage of development. Equally sacred, however, are the lives of the poor, those already born, the destitute, the abandoned and the underprivileged... We cannot uphold an ideal of holiness that would ignore injustice... We often hear it said that... the situation of migrants, for example, is a lesser issue. Some Catholics consider it a secondary issue compared to the ‘grave’ bioethical questions. That a politician looking for votes might say such a thing is understandable, but not a Christian, for whom the only proper attitude is to stand in the shoes of those brothers and sisters of ours who risk their lives to offer a future to their children. Can we not realize that this is exactly what Jesus demands of us, when he tells us that in welcoming the stranger we welcome him? (cf. Mt 25:35)
Scripture connections for August 23, 2020
“And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church... whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven.” Matthew 16: 18-19
What are Peter’s successors binding on earth? How is our Church being built? In Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation “Gaudete et Exsultate” [on the call to holiness in today’s world] (March 2018), he asks us to turn inward to our hearts and outward to our actions. He says:
Our defense of the innocent unborn, for example, needs to be clear, firm and passionate, for at stake is the dignity of a human life, which is always sacred and demands love for each person, regardless of his or her stage of development. Equally sacred, however, are the lives of the poor, those already born, the destitute, the abandoned and the underprivileged... We cannot uphold an ideal of holiness that would ignore injustice... We often hear it said that... the situation of migrants, for example, is a lesser issue. Some Catholics consider it a secondary issue compared to the ‘grave’ bioethical questions. That a politician looking for votes might say such a thing is understandable, but not a Christian, for whom the only proper attitude is to stand in the shoes of those brothers and sisters of ours who risk their lives to offer a future to their children. Can we not realize that this is exactly what Jesus demands of us, when he tells us that in welcoming the stranger we welcome him? (cf. Mt 25:35)
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for August 16, 2020
“She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps…” Mt 15:21-28
What compels the Canaanite woman to say this to Jesus? Faith - a belief that she was worthy of receiving God’s help. She knew deep down that her life deserved dignity. Isn’t that also the Faith of the immigrant and refugee? They know they are deserving of God’s help, of finding dignity in safety, in food, in work. And yet, our nation sets policies that deny this help and dignity to God’s people. Go to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops Justice for Immigrants website justiceforimmigrants.org/take-action/ and sign up for action alerts to make your voice heard. Speak up for the dignity of immigrants and refugees.
Scripture connections for August 16, 2020
“She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps…” Mt 15:21-28
What compels the Canaanite woman to say this to Jesus? Faith - a belief that she was worthy of receiving God’s help. She knew deep down that her life deserved dignity. Isn’t that also the Faith of the immigrant and refugee? They know they are deserving of God’s help, of finding dignity in safety, in food, in work. And yet, our nation sets policies that deny this help and dignity to God’s people. Go to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops Justice for Immigrants website justiceforimmigrants.org/take-action/ and sign up for action alerts to make your voice heard. Speak up for the dignity of immigrants and refugees.
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for August 9, 2020
“At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter.” - 1 Kings 19:9
In today’s 1st Reading, Elijah took shelter in a cave at Mt. Horeb, after walking for forty days and forty nights to get there. Immigrants and refugees often travel even more difficult and dangerous roads, simply seeking safety and shelter: trying to escape the strong winds of oppression and poverty; taking flight after earthquakes, droughts and natural disasters destroy their homes and livelihoods; fleeing violence and persecution like fire… but God is not in the wind, nor the earthquake, nor the fire. God is in “the tiny whispering sound after the fire” that stirs within our hearts, asking us how we will respond to the plight of our brothers and sisters...
Scripture connections for August 9, 2020
“At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter.” - 1 Kings 19:9
In today’s 1st Reading, Elijah took shelter in a cave at Mt. Horeb, after walking for forty days and forty nights to get there. Immigrants and refugees often travel even more difficult and dangerous roads, simply seeking safety and shelter: trying to escape the strong winds of oppression and poverty; taking flight after earthquakes, droughts and natural disasters destroy their homes and livelihoods; fleeing violence and persecution like fire… but God is not in the wind, nor the earthquake, nor the fire. God is in “the tiny whispering sound after the fire” that stirs within our hearts, asking us how we will respond to the plight of our brothers and sisters...
Immigrants and Refugees: A Faith Journey
Scripture connections for August 2, 2020
“You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; Come, without paying and without cost…” Is 55:1
The immigrant and refugee hear God’s call to come. Come where you will find dignity in work, in food security, in safety. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops statement “Strangers No Longer” (USCCB, January 2003) states that people have the right to migrate to support themselves and their family: “When persons are unable to find work to support themselves and their families, they have a right to migrate to other countries and work…In the current condition of the world, in which global poverty is rampant and political unrest has resulted in wars and persecution, migrants who are forced to leave their homes out of necessity and seek only to survive and support their families must be given special consideration.”
It is also God’s call to us Christians to welcome them. As Jesus fed the thousands, so too must we trust that God will guide us in welcoming and feeding the immigrant and refugee. Do we do that as a disciple? Do we do that as a nation? Reflect on ways that you can learn more about the immigrant and refugee so you will echo God’s call to ‘come, receive grain and eat’.
Follow our weekly reflections on A Faith Journey to learn, grow and advocate for the immigrant and refugee in our midst.
Scripture connections for August 2, 2020
“You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; Come, without paying and without cost…” Is 55:1
The immigrant and refugee hear God’s call to come. Come where you will find dignity in work, in food security, in safety. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops statement “Strangers No Longer” (USCCB, January 2003) states that people have the right to migrate to support themselves and their family: “When persons are unable to find work to support themselves and their families, they have a right to migrate to other countries and work…In the current condition of the world, in which global poverty is rampant and political unrest has resulted in wars and persecution, migrants who are forced to leave their homes out of necessity and seek only to survive and support their families must be given special consideration.”
It is also God’s call to us Christians to welcome them. As Jesus fed the thousands, so too must we trust that God will guide us in welcoming and feeding the immigrant and refugee. Do we do that as a disciple? Do we do that as a nation? Reflect on ways that you can learn more about the immigrant and refugee so you will echo God’s call to ‘come, receive grain and eat’.
Follow our weekly reflections on A Faith Journey to learn, grow and advocate for the immigrant and refugee in our midst.