From today’s Scripture: “I come to gather nations of every language…from them I will send fugitives to the nations…and they shall proclaim my glory among the nations.”—Is 66:18-19

God’s view of immigrants involves gathering and sending forth in mission immigrants and their families. Our churches are full of those with different cultures and languages. Babies and young children are an abundant witness to life and love. Multiple languages reflect a Pentecost atmosphere of power from the Spirit. I see this power every Sunday Mass and activity we have at St. Michael’s, the Glenmary parish where I worship.

One dad was baptized in his native country but never instructed. Now he has received the sacraments of Eucharist, Confirmation, and Matrimony. With his wife and five children, they are a witness of faith and love. Losing his job because of flooding, he still maintains his faith and spreads joy with his family.

Two recent funerals show the love this community has for one another and the drawing into oneness happening with the Anglos they have contact with each day.

Let us pray: God our Father, continue to gather your people in faith and love and help them to be witnesses of your goodness and compassion. Let the children be a witness of life and love to all they contact and send them forth to set this world on fire with your love.

Today’s author is Kathy O’Brien, a retired Glenmary Lay Missioner. She has worked with Glenmary since coming to Appalachia as a volunteer in 1971. 

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