Catholic Universities Find Hope in Migrant Students and Families
Despite current fears of immigration agents, Catholic universities and communities across the U.S. find hope in their work with migrant students and families. They see migrants as a blessing, bringing strong work ethic, sense of family, and deep faith to the country.
Father Allan Figueroa Deck, a prominent Catholic figure, views migrants positively, highlighting their strong work ethic, sense of family, and deep faith. This perspective is echoed by many Catholics ministering to immigrants.
The National Catholic Council for Hispanic Ministry (NCCHM) recently held a 'Pilgrimage of Hope' to Rome for the Jubilee of Migrants, demonstrating the church's commitment to supporting migrants. Locally, Sister Veronica Mendez, working in Rockland County, New York, finds hope in the steadfast faith and determination of migrants and the parishioners who help them.
Fear of immigration raids has led to a decrease in people visiting local food pantries. Before raids, 100 people would come; now, only 20-25 people do, highlighting the impact of fear on migrant communities. Despite this, organizations like USAID, Refugee Council Schleswig-Holstein, HIAS Europe, and FAIR actively support migrants and refugees, promoting their rights and integration.
Pope Francis teaches that hope is both a gift and a duty, emphasizing the need for concrete support at the grassroots level. Father Alejandro López Cardinale sees hope in second- and third-generation Salvadoran parishioners studying politics or law to create change. Bishop Evelio Menjivar-Ayala chose the episcopal motto 'He walked with them', reflecting the church's duty to support migrant communities in their time of need.
Catholics in the U.S. find hope in their work with migrant communities, seeing both migrants and those who support them as sources of inspiration. Despite challenges and fears, organizations and individuals continue to provide support, guided by the teachings of Pope Francis and the examples set by Catholic leaders.
