Pastor's Note

FROM ONE COUNTRY TO ANOTHER
January 7th, 2007

It seems that almost every family has one member who is the family historian or genealogist. Often that person traces the family roots back to the country of origin. Many exciting stories are discovered along the way.
Unless the family is Native American, the ancestors came from another country. Some of those hardy individuals put up with difficult times, hard work, little income, and even ethnic discrimination in order to settle in this country. We, their descendants, are forever grateful for their commitment to ‘the next generation.’ A common thread is that almost all immigrants want their children and grandchildren to have a better world than they had.
Sadly, some people emigrate, not because they dislike their home country, but because of fear of the government or because they can’t provide a living for their families. Some are refugees of war, famine, and other disasters. I’ve talked with some who had to leave their homes under the cover of darkness lest they be caught.
Every year the Catholic Church observes ‘MIGRATION WEEK,’ beginning at about the time of the Epiphany. This year Migration Week is January 7-13.
According to news reports, the new U.S. Congress will once again be looking at the question of immigration, especially from south of the U.S. border. While our church supports any government’s right to protect its borders, it also says that all those who seek immigration must be treated justly. And those already in this country, including those without documentation, must be respected. There is no easy answer to the influx that the U.S. experiences. However, our policies should not be based on irrational fear or prejudice.
Please pray that a just policy on immigration emerge. At the same time, we need to warmly welcome all those living here who have immigrated from elsewhere. Finally, our country needs to consider fair and appropriate ways of working with other countries so that their citizens will not feel the need to leave.
In admitting that most of us are products of immigration, maybe we can be more sensitive to those who are seeking the same.