EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) — As the United States of America turns 250 on July 4, faith leaders and the border communities they serve are recognizing the contributions of immigrants.
On Friday, Catholic bishops from the Southwest will celebrate Border Mass 250, which will include a procession from Nogales, Arizona, across the border into Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.
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The binational event, dubbed a “binational gathering of faith, solidarity, and recognition of the contributions of immigrants,” will begin with a pastoral conversation with bishops at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, at 272 N. Rodriguez St. in Nogales, Arizona.
The bishops, including those from Tucson, Phoenix, Santa Fe, and El Paso, will then gather to celebrate Eucharist at Sacred Heart, “to pray for all who are immersed in this complex human reality, including our political leaders.”
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“As we approach our nation’s anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this day will also offer the opportunity to consider the immeasurable contributions migrants have made to the United States over the past 250 years — many of whom have sought refuge from persecution and hardship and have helped shape the life of our nation,” the Catholic Diocese of Tucson posted on its website. “Despite the challenges and complexities, we pray that God will fill all hearts with His grace — so that we may see Christ in one another and protect human dignity as the greatest gift given in God’s providential love.”
After Mass, participants will make their way through town and across the border to meet the folks from that church for a prayer in Mexico.
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“This time for pastoral accompaniment and spiritual reflection will help us to honor the generations of families who have long called this region home, acknowledge migrants navigating the legal system in very difficult personal circumstances, and lift up the men and women entrusted with enforcing laws and maintaining public safety,” the diocese said…