Faith and Immigration Justice is a program that facilitates holy and healthy dialogue around migration, a highly contentious topic that is nevertheless intricately linked with our Christian faith. By fostering active listening, dialogue, and prayer, this program forms a group that is rooted in trust and compassion. Through new learning from articles, videos and books (Welcoming the Stranger by Jenny Hwang and Matthew Soerens and The Line Becomes a River by Francisco Cantú), it lends new insights to participants’ understanding of immigration policy and those affected by it. Encouraging new spiritual practices and informed action, it cultivates an expanding community of Christians who work for immigration justice in their respective contexts.
An information session will be held on August 31 at 7 p.m. in the Hospitality Room.
Holy Infant Catholic Church (DeSales Center)
Wednesdays, September 14 to November 2
6:45-9 p.m.
Co-facilitators: Elizabeth Tolman and Jan Eichen
The registration fee is $30 and includes two books. For more information, contact Lynn Sale.
Please register by August 31.
Session 1: Introductions/Theology of Migration
Participants commit to guidelines for holy dialogue. They then explore biblical and theological themes around immigration.
Session 2: History of Immigration to the U.S.
An interactive activity guides participants in exploring the fears and hopes underlying immigration policy throughout U.S. history.
Session 3: “Why Don’t They Just Get in Line?”
A simulation activity guides participants in considering questions such as “Who is eligible for citizenship?”, “How do they apply?”, and “How long does the process take?”.
Session 4: Why do People Migrate? Part One
Participants view a documentary on the big-picture factors that spur migration, specifically international economic policies and military interventions.
Session 5: Why do People Migrate? Part Two
After hearing from a guest speaker from the local community, participants name factors that “push” people from their homes and “pull” them to the United States.
Session 6: Current Issues in Migration
Participants discuss current immigration-related topics such as DACA, TPS, and
family separations at the border.
-Immersion Experience -
Session 7: Advocating for Change
This session equips participants to engage in advocacy around immigration policy and effect change in their nation and/or communities.
Session 8: Turning to Action
Participants engage in a discernment activity in order to commit to action steps, both as individuals and as a group.