Reflection By The Immigrant & Refugee Ministry

~ What can I do in a time of disruption in the lives of our immigrant brothers and sisters?

During these first weeks of 2025 as our immigrant sisters and brothers face fears stirred up by discrimination, detention, deportation, and family separation, many people of goodwill have been asking, “What can I do?” Here are few ways that you can bring God’s love to those who are suffering: 

1. Don’t panic! Fear and anxiety are meant to send us into chaos or petrify us. These things prevent us from acting with clarity and courageous love. “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear” (1 Jn. 4:18).
2. Advocate. Sign up for action alerts from the US Catholic bishops’ Justice for Immigrants Campaign. Call, write, or visit your political and community leaders everyday to express your concern. Find a local demonstration in support of immigrants. Share what you believe about the dignity of migrants with a friend or family member.  
3. Give generously. Many organizations that accompany immigrants are working tirelessly to support our community with legal services, healthcare, spiritual and emotional support, and basic needs during this difficult time. Within the local church St. Francis Community Services’ Catholic Legal Assistance Ministry (CLAM) and Southside Immigrant Services provide important assistance to immigrants. You can also donate to our Immigrant & Refugee Ministry here to help with crucial funding for rent, utilities, and other direct assistance. 
4. Accompany. Our Immigrant & Refugee Ministry is seeking volunteers to accompany our immigrant neighbors to check-ins with immigration authorities. If you’re interested, please contact IRM Accompaniment Coordinator Paula Jaimes at Accompaniment.IRM@gmail.com.  For this and other IRM volunteer opportunities, register here. 
5. Patronize immigrant businesses. Many immigrants are struggling economically at this time or are afraid to go to work, stores, and restaurants. Visiting an immigrant business provides hope and much needed income for families who are struggling.  
6. Be vigilant. Call the Rapid Response Line to report Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity: (314) 370-7080. A group of local organizations and individuals, including immigration attorneys, are providing support during certain hours to remind everyone of their rights and provide support for those who are detained. Learn more about Rapid Response here. 
7. Know your Rights. Everyone in the US has rights, regardless of their citizenship status. You can print out and distribute “Red Cards” to help everyone know these rights. CLAM and MICA Project are seeking interpreters, notaries, and attorneys to help with power of attorney workshops. 
8. Pray. Ask God for peace for those who are feeling anxious and afraid. We pray for those who accompany them. As Jesus taught us, we beg that God’s Kingdom might come more and more each day and push away all darkness that threatens the dignity of God’s Children. 

For more ideas, you can stay in touch with the Immigrant & Refugee Ministry through our newsletter. Sign up HERE.