Journey to Justice: A Catholic Vision of Immigration
National security
The final stretch of our journey will take us through the issue of national security. This road will lead us through dark and unexplored territory. The darkness is our fear. The unexplored landscape signifies a rather new reality for us. Since the attacks of September 11, national security concerns have been intertwined with the immigration debate. Some say it is time to completely seal the border between Mexico and the United States as a way of dispelling fear of further attacks.
Once more we grasp the walking stick of Catholic social teaching to lead us toward solidarity. Pope Paul VI counseled us that peace (in this case, freedom from terrorism) must be built on a just society. Instead of emphasizing defensive postures to alleviate our fears, we should increase our positive actions to establish a more just global community where true and lasting peace is to be found.
Above all we must look to the sandals on our feet and our desire to follow after our divine Pastor, who leads us through the darkness of fear: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness” (Jn 8:12). These fears must be overcome so that we may find real security and peace, which are the fruits of justice.
Jesus entered into everlasting solidarity with the human family by his life, death, and resurrection. Our call to follow him is a call to solidarity with others, especially the poor. Our journey toward solidarity with the immigrant is one of personal conversion and commitment to the other. Arriving at our destination “like the immigrant” we find new hope for the future. We, too, must demonstrate our hope in concrete expressions of solidarity:
Pray every day for immigrants, especially those who are crossing the border through deserts between the U.S. and Mexico.
Contribute to the conversations taking place all around you and imbue them with our Catholic vision.
Participate in the bishops’ campaign “Justice for Immigrants.” Read about the campaign and decide how you can participate.
Write members of the House and Senate, reminding them of our immigrant history and the Christian values that must remain at the forefront of the debate.
Thousands of families like the one I described at the beginning are searching for a new life. They have journeyed many miles through dangerous territory to pursue a promise, a dream for tomorrow. Our personal journeys of solidarity help us cross the borders of our own hearts toward them.
Father John Fahey-Guerra is a member of the Hispanic Missionary Project of The Redemptorists of the Denver Province, located in the Diocese of Dodge City, Kansas.