Strangers No Longer

Strangers No Longer is a network of parishes and congregations creating Circles of Support. . .

to provide assistance to immigrants in our area and to advocate for a comprehensive and humane immigration policy. We do this to put into practice the example of Jesus and Pope Francis: to receive strangers (the migrants) as our own brothers and sisters. Our support is shown in four ways:

1) Education – We strive to educate in the parishes and congregations about U.S. immigration policy, the effect it is having on real people, and the needs that arise out of this policy.

2) Direct Support/Accompaniment – We work with families directly in many ways including accompanying immigrant families to court, and providing transportation, translation, and emergency financial support.

3) Advocacy – We advocate for more humane policies and practices toward immigrants at local, state, and national levels -- meeting with local officials, asking them to make policies and practices that reflect the values of the parish.

4) Spiritual Integration - The work of Strangers No Longer is deeply rooted in scripture, the tradition of Catholic Social Teaching, and the experience of the presence of God in the lives of the people we serve and our members. The Spiritual Integration team supports the members during leadership and larger assembly meetings through reflections on where God is moving in individuals and the organization.