Written by Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care
Blessed Angela started her ministry to care for those in need around her. She saw a need and she fulfilled it. This is how each of the ministries in North America of the Felician Sisters began. There was a need in a community and the Sisters found a way to respond to that need. The Felician Sisters send out a regular Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation email. The most recent message spoke to the support of immigrants and refugees. The note included links to messages from Bishop Mark Seitz in relation to immigration. Additionally, from his youtube video, one can travel to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops website where there is a full discussion of immigration. It begins with the words, “Compelled by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and recognizing the inherent dignity of each person as a child of God, we stand in firm solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters who live and labor in these United States.” Speaking of those outside the borders, the Bishops say, “We hope that our country can develop an effective asylum system for those fleeing persecution and an immigration system that keeps our borders safe and secure, with enforcement policies that focus on those who present risks and dangers to society, particularly efforts to reduce gang activity, stem the flow of drugs, and end human trafficking.”
What can we do to express our solidarity with those in need and our respect for the human dignity of all people? We can start with prayer. With our prayers comes a call to action. Many had appointments for asylum seeking that have now been cancelled. The Diocese of El Paso has a Border Refugee Assistance Fund. One of the works of the Church here is to support those who are stranded in Ciudad Juarez across the border from El Paso.
We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the world. The Felician Sisters, whose many ministries support those in need, continuing the ministry of Jesus Christ, call on us to act with them. May we continue to serve those who require our assistance.
Blessed Angela: “Never look for self in anything but always seek the glory of God and the good of your neighbor.”