Interfaith Dialogue: Unity for Immigrant Rights

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Located in the southern realm of Michigan’s lower peninsula, a border state adjoining Canada, Secular (lay) Franciscans of Divine Mercy Region are uniquely situated to confront the critical challenges surrounding immigration and refugee rights. This geographical proximity creates a profound obligation. It resonates deeply with our Franciscan vocation of peace and justice, which is especially important for marginalized and vulnerable people.

Immigration and Refugee Rights: A Franciscan Mandate

We have a sacred duty. We must advocate for fair and compassionate immigration statutes, extend tangible support to refugees and asylum seekers, and resist unjust deportation measures. This mission transcends political advocacy and embodies our Gospel commitment to love, compassion, and justice.

Advocating for Fair and Compassionate Immigration Statutes

As followers of St. Francis, we are called to take action. We need to support immigration reforms that honor every person’s intrinsic dignity. These reforms should respect individual rights. This advocacy includes endorsing legislation that ensures a transparent and just pathway to citizenship. It also safeguards immigrants’ rights and fortifies family unity. We can collaborate with local and national organizations to drive reforms that resonate with human dignity and collective welfare tenets.

Extending Support to Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Our mission extends beyond advocacy to offering substantive support. This includes providing legal counsel, shelter, and employment opportunities, enabling refugees and asylum seekers to reconstruct their lives with dignity. We must also tackle their holistic well-being by facilitating access to education, healthcare, and spiritual nourishment.

Resisting Unjust Deportation Measures

Unjust deportation practices shatter familial bonds and inflict profound suffering on individuals and communities. As Franciscans, we must denounce these practices and champion the humane treatment of all, regardless of their immigration status. This entails collaborating with policymakers to ensure immigration enforcement respects human rights and embodies justice and mercy.

Fostering Unity Through Interfaith Dialogue

Interfaith dialogue is pivotal in our efforts to support immigrants and refugees. Engaging with diverse faith communities cultivates mutual understanding and respect. This engagement fosters a spirit of unity and collaboration, which is essential for building a just and peaceful society.

A Clarion Call to the Secular Franciscan Community

Beloved Secular Franciscans, though our cherished fraternal gatherings hold great importance, they are but a glimpse of the vast tapestry of our calling. The Rule of Life and Constitutions beckon us to breathe life into our faith and vocation far beyond the warmth of these meetings. We are summoned to be beacons of justice, to extend our hands and hearts to those in desperate need. If we retreat into the comfort of our fraternity, we risk betraying the very essence of our mission. Let us step boldly into the world, carrying our faith as a lantern, illuminating the path of justice and reflecting the Gospel in every breath, every action, and every corner of our lives.

Conclusion: Embracing Our Franciscan Vocation

As Franciscans of the Divine Mercy Region, we are emissaries of God’s peace and love. By living the Gospel and embracing Catholic Social Teaching, we strive for a world where justice and compassion reign. Inspired by St. Francis’s boundless charity, we dedicate ourselves to this sacred mission. Bringing hope and healing to all we meet.

mikecars10@franciscanministryinc.org