By Sr. Erin McDonald, CSJ
In response to the increasing persecution of our migrant communities, Catholic dioceses across the country are partnering with research, policy and advocacy groups to convene day long programs called, “Witness to Hope: Pastoral Care of Immigrant Communities.” On May 6th, the Archdiocese of Detroit convened a regional gathering, and in a spirit of solidarity, justice and unioning love, about 200 people, including myself, immersed in a day of dialogue and discernment about the Church prophetic witness to a love of God and love of neighbor that meetsthese times.
We heard stories from directly impacted families about the fear, violence, and desperation being experienced in our own community and we heard from policy experts and immigration lawyers about the unjust changes in federal policies and the concerning shifts in funding for federal law enforcement. In light of these desperate times, we spent the afternoon in small work groups to network, collaborate and dream about prophetic responses to the suffering in our midst.
Archbishop Weisenburger said, “The political paradigm at the moment is a most painful one, [and] the Gospel is perhaps more prophetic than ever before. Let us continue to be prophetic without losing our souls, with love and hope.” As a Catholic and a Sister of St Joseph, I was energized by the local response to this call to action and I feel that God’s great love continues to inspire and support us as we march forward in stubborn hope and courageous advocacy.
To learn more about these gatherings and to see if one is happening in your region, visit Catholic IMMpact’s new website here.
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Sr Erin McDonald, CSJ serves in Digital & Young Adult Ministry for the Congregation of St. Joseph and as the co-host of the Beyond the Habit Podcast.
