Day of Prayer and Solidarity with Families of Immigrants

You are invited to participate in a national day of prayer and solidarity with families of immigrants. The following message was developed by the Sisters of St. Francis, Clinton, Iowa:

The Day of Prayer and Solidarity with Families of Immigrants will focus on the gifts of refugees and migrants and will take place across the United States.

Across the country Masses and prayer services will be held as the Church continues to accompany migrants and refugees seeking an opportunity to provide for their families. In this environment of uncertainty that multitudes of immigrants and refugees and their families are currently facing, the U.S. Catholic bishops are demonstrating their solidarity with our migrant and refugee brothers and sisters by asking Catholics to pray for the protection and well-being of this vulnerable population.

The USCCB has developed a Scriptural Rosary titled "Unity in Diversity" and USCCB will continue to develop pastoral and advocacy resources following the basic principles contained in Strangers No Longer: Together on the Journey of Hope.

Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez, the USCCB Vice-President stated, "We want them to know the Church is with them, offers prayers on their behalf, and is actively monitoring developments at the diocesan, state, and national levels to be an effective advocate on their behalf."

Prayer for Migrants and Refugees (from the USCCB)

Lord Jesus, when you multiplied the loaves and fishes, you provided more than food for the body, you offered us the gift of yourself, the gift which satisfies every hunger and quenches every thirst! Your disciples were filled with fear and doubt, but you poured out your love and compassion on the migrant crowd, welcoming them as brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus, today you call us to welcome the members of God's family who come to our land to escape oppression, poverty, persecution, violence, and war. Like your disciples, we too are filled with fear and doubt and even suspicion. We build barriers in our hearts and in our minds.

Lord Jesus, help us by your grace,

• To banish fear from our hearts, that we may embrace each of your children as our own brother and sister;
• To welcome migrants and refugees with joy and generosity, while responding to their many needs;
• To realize that you call all people to your holy mountain to learn the ways of peace and justice;
• To share of our abundance as you spread a banquet before us;
• To give witness to your love for all people, as we celebrate the many gifts they bring.

We praise you and give you thanks for the family you have called together from so many people. We see in this human family a reflection of the divine unity of the one Most Holy Trinity in whom we make our prayer: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.