by Gabino Zavala, Justice and Peace Director
Today (December 12) we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Empress of the Americas. She is our caring and loving Mother who shows compassion for her children, especially the most vulnerable in our midst. Our faith teaches us to love our neighbor and care for the migrants who are often the most vulnerable in our communities.
Pope Francis has called on us to pray and provide support for our brothers and sisters who are migrants and refugees through the historic campaign, Share the Journey. Let us follow our Holy Father’s call by speaking out on behalf of the young people in our communities. As we come to the end of the year let us support the young immigrants in the United States.
Due to the inaction of our Congress since the announcement that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) would end, approximately 800,000 of our nations immigrant children are extremely vulnerable as they face an uncertain future. The United States is the only home they have ever known. Ripping them away form their families is unconscionable. Today, on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, share her message and let us ask Congress to protect our immigrant young people and pass the Dream Act before the end of the year.
How can you help?
Pray:
Most merciful mother, you came to tell us of your compassion through St. Juan Diego, whom you called the littlest and dearest of your children. Give your strength and protection to all who live in poverty today, especially the young, the elderly, and vulnerable. Plead for them to the Father in their need that He may give them comfort, protection and peace.
Join:
Support the Share the Journey Campaign — a collaborative global campaign form Caritas Internationalis led in the U.S. by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholic Charities USA, and Catholic Relief Services to raise awareness and support for the needs of migrants and refugees across the world.
Act:
Contact Congress today and urge therm to take action on behalf of Dreamers before the end of the year.
Call your Representative: 1-888-496-3502
Call your Senator: 1-888-410=0619
(call twice to contact each Senator)