National Eucharistic Pilgrimage Brings Hope to LA's Immigrant Community Amidst Fear and Tension
The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage made a poignant stop at St. Vincent DePaul Church in downtown Los Angeles on June 21. The event, attended by both documented and undocumented immigrants, was marked by fear, hope, and spiritual strength.
LA Auxiliary Bishop Matthew G. Elshoff reminded the faithful of Christ's call to compassion, regardless of one's immigration status. The Eucharist was carried outside to Figueroa Street after adoration and prayer, a powerful symbol of God's presence amidst fear and tension.
Angel, an undocumented immigrant, expressed hope that the pilgrimage would be a blessing for the immigrant community. His wife, Victoria, equated the immigration fear to the Holy Family's flight into Egypt and found strength in the pilgrimage. Another parishioner, who wished to remain unidentified, shared similar fears but felt strengthened in the presence of the Eucharist.
Fear and tensions from recent ICE raids affected the event. Some parishioners expressed concern about ICE's presence nearby. However, the pilgrimage also brought unity and hope. Susan Gabis, a parishioner, prayed for peace and healing for the world and saw the pilgrimage as a symbol of God's protection. Lorena, an unauthorized immigrant, cried while sharing her fear but also her determination to help others in her community. A family from Indiana, originally from Mexico, traveled three days to join the pilgrimage, passing through Utah and Nebraska.
The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage in Los Angeles served as a beacon of hope and unity amidst fear and tension. It reminded the faithful of Christ's call to compassion and provided strength to the immigrant community, regardless of their documentation status.
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