Mennonite Central Committee

Isabel: The church is my second family.

Luisa, Mexico: I was depressed upon my arrival. I missed my family. But God showed me that I can find brothers and sisters here in church. I’ve come to love the church, and it is important for my spiritual life. I came with the desire to progress economically, but God has shown me, through the church, that He’s got a better palace for me. In the midst of trouble, I’ve grown spiritually. So I thank this country for that –that it caused me to grow closer to God.

Carlos, Bolivia: I’ve been in the United States for about 3 months. It was surprising to me that the church is supportive of immigrants. All immigrants come with spiritual needs, and the church is filling this need. It is helping the immigrant feel better. We are a family. Maybe the American Dream is left on one side, but we are drawn closer to God.

Joseph: I did not have a passion for God, though I grew up in a Christian home. I came for the American Dream. I’m getting ready to go back to Mexico without a social security number. But I have the greatest treasure of life --God; the greatest spiritual riches of all. I’ve experienced love in the church from brothers and sisters of the church. For that I am thankful.

Joseph was heartened to meet Americans working to improve immigration laws, when there are many who do not want immigrants here. For centuries, many have come to the United States as immigrants. Joseph expressed sadness to see the descendants of former immigrants not welcoming new immigrants.