"For I was a stranger..."

“Out of love for the Incarnate Word,” our Congregation’s Constitutions say, “we consciously choose to enter into the paschal events of our own times. In our era, this means prioritizing the needs and concerns of persons forced to migrate because of war, persecution, large-scale human rights violations, natural disasters or the effects of climate change. Hundreds of millions of people have chosen or been forced to migrate, more than any other time in human history. We understand the hardships and instability this brings to families and individuals as we encounter displaced persons in every country where we minister. The Gospel demands we place our resources, prayers, advocacy efforts, and ministries in the service of welcoming, protecting, promoting, and integrating these persons who find themselves a stranger in a strange land. Jesus said, "I was a stranger and you welcomed me." 

Our direct services to immigrants involve English language literacy and citizenship classes, as well as access through our partners to computer literacy and vocational training.  In partnership with others, we help provide access to legal and social services, as well healthcare through our Sister-led clinics and sponsored hospital systems. 

Our retreat centers also make special outreach efforts to newcomers and those who speak nondominant languages to make available peaceful places for spiritual guidance and refreshment.