While much attention has been focused on the situation with Haitians, especially in Springfield within the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, the issue of migration is affecting us all.
Some migrate because of persecution, poverty, war and violence, and the like. Others migrate in search of a better future. When I say “others” – I mean, other people who bear the image of God and who are worthy of care and respect.
Earlier this month, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, was in Columbus to speak at our Catholic Social Services function about Fratelli Tutti: On Fraternity and Social Friendship. We are brothers and sisters to each other in the human family. We are called by faith to love our neighbor, and the parable of the Good Samaritan answers the question of “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus asks at the conclusion of the parable, “Who was neighbor to him,” and the response given by the scribe is “the one who treated him with compassion.” Jesus commands and exhorts: “Go and do likewise.” This is what I ask of you as as part of our local church: to treat others with compassion.
I also wish to highlight how our local church and its parishes are benefiting greatly from the new wave of immigration, not only in our Hispanic population but also in the new African migrants as well as those from India and other parts of Asia. Our church is enriched by the presence of these members of the flock, and the Spirit of God knows how to harmonize these gifts, preserving unity in diversity.
As the son of immigrants, I know personally what it is like to be looked at with suspicion. I recall, not without pain, people saying to me, “Why don’t you go back to your own country?” Our nation is a “melting pot” and a land of opportunity. How many are looking for us simply to live in peace, with freedom, and be able to provide for their families? The Holy Father calls us not merely to welcome the stranger but also to help integrate them. I am proud of the efforts of our parishes and our Catholic schools in our Diocese, and I encourage you to help the Church carry out her mission of welcoming, integrating and evangelizing.
In his 2022 Message for the World Day of Migration, Pope Francis called us to “build a better future together.” Let us take his words to heart.
I encourage you to read the letter from Ohio’s bishops on migrants, knowing that I stand firmly with them, with you, and with all of our brothers and sisters in this crisis.
