How do we welcome Jesus, Mary and Joseph into our neighborhood? “It is not easy to enter into another culture, to put oneself in the shoes of people so different from us, to understand their thoughts and their experiences. As a result, we often refuse to encounter the other and raise barriers to defend ourselves. Local communities are sometimes afraid that the newly arrived will disturb the established order, will “steal” something they have long labored to build up.” Pope Francis,
Message for this year’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees. For reflection: Am I fearful that my way of life will be threatened by newcomers to our neighborhood? Have I made a real effort to welcome newcomers to my neighborhood? Interested in joining MMOC’s Peace and Justice Ministry? Call Saralou Hendrickson 314.440.2020