World Immigration News

From Border Crossings to Bishop: A Story of Faith and Immigration

Release Date
2025-03-15
Media
National Catholic Register
Summary
Bishop Evelio Menjivar, the auxiliary bishop of Washington, D.C., and the first Salvadoran bishop in the U.S., discussed his personal journey as an immigrant and his views on the current immigration crisis. Reflecting on his own experience of crossing the border in 1990, he emphasized that many immigrants come to the U.S. with good intentions, seeking better opportunities and contributing to society through hard work. He highlighted that immigrants are often unfairly treated as criminals, despite their contributions to the nation.

Bishop Menjivar also expressed the importance of having more Hispanic leaders in the Church, as the Latino community is a significant part of the U.S. Catholic Church. He discussed the need to promote more vocations among Hispanic communities to ensure proper pastoral care for the growing number of immigrants.

In response to Pope Francis' recent letter emphasizing the dignity of immigrants, Menjivar expressed gratitude for the Holy Father's support, particularly in a time of rising anti-immigrant rhetoric. He also reflected on the harsh conditions that led many to leave their countries, such as war and poverty, and underscored the necessity of empathy and support for immigrants facing fear and uncertainty.

Lastly, Menjivar stressed that his faith, nurtured through community and prayer, has remained strong throughout his journey, guiding him as he continues his pastoral work with immigrants in the U.S.
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