Franciscan Sister Mary Ann Spanjers shares on the recent Bi-National Migrant Las Posadas in Mexico.

Sister Leonette, Sister Rosalyn and Sister Mary Ann participated in the annual Bi-National Migrant Las Posadas with hundreds of others including Mexico’s Diocese of Nogales Bishop Jose Leopoldo Gonzalez and Diocese of Tucson Bishop Edward Weisenburger.

Mary on the donkey with Joseph walking next to her led the pilgrimage. At this time when caravans or exodus of Central Americans coming to the borders with migrants and refugees who are forced to leave their countries of origin because of violence as they look for asylum, many who are deported and others in search of a better future, they knock on the doors of our lives and they ask about our comforts, the unequal distribution of goods, corruption, violence and impunity and many other ruthless acts that create this movement of people. Called by faith and hope of one human family, and as children of the same Father, we came together to celebrated the BiNational Posada, a symbol of a beginning and welcome for all migrants.

At the four stops we heard true stories of immigrants from various countries as they related their horrific experiences of violence, poverty, rejection and faith in God as they looked for refuge and welcome. Both Bishops related how with the Church there are no borders. The pilgrimage concluded at the Kino Border Comedor (Food Kitchen) where all the pilgrims were invited to a warm meal!