Written by: Sister Susan Maloney, SNJM
June 16, 2013
“The People Rejoice” was my impression of our stop of Nuns on the Bus at
Christ the King Catholic Parish.
With open arms, about 200 adults, youth and children gathered at the church
to greet the Nuns on the Bus. After a gracious reception by the pastor Father
Brian Joyce, each sister was welcomed by an individual member of the parish. Sister
Simone and the sisters circulated among the crowd to explain the need for
comprehensive immigration reform.
We participated in the Eucharistic Celebration and prayed for the needs of
our country, the church and particularly families who are separated because of
lack of a fair and just federal legislation on immigration.
After Mass, Sister Simone addressed parishioners and explained the
opportunity before us as a nation to fix the broken immigration system. She
encouraged us to contact our U.S. Congressperson to support federal legislation
which includes a pathway to US
citizenship, and a plan to expedite applicant backlogs for permanent residence
with family unity as a priority.
After long hours on the bus, it was a delight to be invited into the parish
center and receive a home-cooked meal. Our conversations continued with the
wonderful and generous members of Christ the King Parish.
Upon leaving, one parishioner thanked me and all the Catholic Sisters for
our leadership. For him Catholic Sisters are a beacon of light for the Catholic
Church and the nation.
