NCADDHM Member,
On September 5, we received the sad news of the Administration’s termination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. And, as pastoral agents, committed to the work of peace and justice, we join our US Bishops in their statement denouncing this decision (http://www.usccb.org/news/2017/17-157.cfm)
As pastoral agents in our respective dioceses, we have the privilege to know and work closely with young adults who are directly impacted by this reprehensible decision. In our mutual journey and dream, we have been blessed by the many gifts and contributions of our DACA students. Together with their families, they have enriched our pastoral work and ministries across cultural and generational divides. Our places of ministry and services will continue to be spaces of hospitality, support and accompaniment.
While we are saddened by today’s development and decision, we remain committed to our DACA families. Today, more than ever, we wish to say to our DACA families and allies that we are not without hope and resolve: we stand together as one family, ready to continue building up our Church and society.