The Justice for Immigrants Campaign of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops has asked Catholic parishes around the country to pray as one at Eucharistic celebrations this weekend for fair and just immigration reform. This is not about advocating a particular proposal, but about recognizing the critical importance of ensuring that Catholic values are an essential component of the ongoing dialogue surrounding the issue of immigration reform in this country.
“This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) As Christians, we are people of love. Can others see how we love one another? Do they know we are Jesus’ disciples by the way we love immigrants? How we treat our immigrant brothers and sisters speaks volumes of who we are and who we wish to be.
Let us pray together this weekend for immigrants and their suffering, for their needs and their hopes. And let us pray that we achieve fair and just reform of a system that is sorely in need of of fixing. The MSP Office for Social Justice has drafted some suggested petitions for Masses this weekend. You might consider including them in your own prayers.
For the immigrants, migrants, refugees and all people on the move, that they may find hope and safe haven, remain true to their rich traditions and heritage, and help to build harmonious communities wherever they live.
For all organizations dedicated to assisting refugees, migrants and other vulnerable populations, may their mission bring about justice and reflect God’s infinite love.
For our elected officials, that they may find the wisdom and courage to help reform our broken immigration system, so that the basic human dignity of all persons is protected and that immigrant families are able to remain together.
Creo en Dios! 