For American Catholics, we trace our lineage to the patchwork immigrants throughout the centuries, stitched together with grit, grace, and a hope in a tomorrow. In our own desire for sanctuary and our roots as citizens in the family of God, under the mantle of Our Lady, may we hold that torch of Lady Liberty high in the storm so that others may find hospitality and home.
Rather than unravelling these bonds of community and human dignity, there is an opportunity to strengthen the threads of our common bonds as members of this common household with the mantles of liberty and justice as well as peace and every good, for all–para todos.
Lady Liberty, inspire us. Mother Mary, deliver us. And let us be your mantles for our sisters and brothers who come from distant lands to make a home with us. Amen.
—from Franciscan Spirit‘s “Blessed Mother & Lady Liberty: Finding Safe Harbor“
by Rebecca Freeman
