I have arrived and started this journey here in El Paso, Texas. I am traveling and serving with Deb Seng and Betsy Wiest, Agregees and representatives of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania. This collaborative effort has lead us to accompany refugees through the Annunciation House.
The Annunciation House was started by a group of volunteers 41 years ago who desired to live the Gospel more deeply. This depth comes to fruition through relationship with the poor, for Jesus demonstrates over and over again true relation with the poor and how we should strive to live in solidarity.
Responding to the need of their community, Annunciation House now serves refugees who are seeking asylum in the States. Today there are several locations, hospitality centers, throughout El Paso that are opened as space and beds are needed. Each location is run by volunteers. After individuals cross the Southern Border seeking asylum, they are often sent to NGOs who help them connect with their relatives who are sponsoring them. Annunciation House is one of these organizations. Volunteers make countless phone calls, check and re check confirmations numbers, and accompany families to bus stations and airports at all hours of the day. Great care is also taken to be sure each family knows what to expect for the journey ahead. Most, if not all, families are coming from Spanish speaking countries. Many have never traveled by plane and time is spent to explain each step. Written instructions in both English and Spanish are also provided. If a plane or bus is delayed, and we all know that this reality is inevitable, they rely on the kindness and assistance of strangers. Strangers to show them to their next bus. Guide them to the restrooms. Explain how seating works. Point out places and demonstrate the process to get food and water. Things that we know and do without hesitation.
I feel a kinship in a small way with these families as they travel through a new land relying on the hospitality of others. I lived for two years in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In my first months I knew no Swahili and got lost in my own neighborhood countless times. Bus routes were confusing. Roads zigzagged in ways that seemed like chaos at first glance. If not for the culture of hospitality that is so prevalent throughout Tanzania, I would have never found my way. What a blessing to pay forward this gift of hospitality that I received for two years in a new land.
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| Left to right: Betsy Wiest, Deb Seng, & Patrice Swick |
I am in awe of you, Patrice! Thank you for doing this important work! I am with you in spirit and prayer! Would love to connect when you get back and hear about your experience.
ReplyDelete-- Julie (Yochim) Ferraro
Thanks for your kind words Julie! We are here with so many faithful individuals from across the country who are giving of their time and talents. I look forward to sharing all of my encounters when I am back in Erie.
ReplyDeleteSo great to finally read something positive about this issue. Glad you had a safe trip. Can't wait for your next blog! - Rich P.
ReplyDeleteThanks for making the trip to Annunciation House and for sharing your experiences there with us. I and my wife Margie and as many as twenty members of our Indivisible Resistance Group in Warren, PA have been carrying signs and doing a vigil in front of the Warren County Courthouse for one hour each Friday for many months now. We are protesting our governments cruel immigration policy. Our hope and prayer is that many more will join us.
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