By Katie Beckmann, Communications Manager
This week’s “Embracing Faith” article will focus on Embracing Faith through Reflection.
Candles were lit throughout the country on Friday, July 12th, as communities came together to participate in the Lights for Liberty Vigil and pray for an end to the horrific conditions that refugees currently face.
In Nanuet, New York, the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Blauvelt, New York joined activists from the community, Dominican Sisters of Sparkill, Sisters of Christian Doctrine, and the Rockland Immigration Coalition to show their support for refugees.
Sister Dorothy Maxwell, OP, participated in Lights for Liberty and wrote about her experience.
“We sing, we are called to act with justice, and when we learn of what is going on in detention centers, we must protest. Through words and actions, we have been the voice of the poor, and I felt called to speak out with hundreds of others.
The turnout (in Nanuet) was larger than other events that I have participated in, as cars honked in support of what we were doing. As one with the laity, we sent a strong message that changes in government policies concerning refugees must happen now.
There are numerous causes to advocate for in undoing the wrongs of others, as well as educating others with clear messages that refugees are victims of oppression.
When you observe the grey heads of wisdom using their energies on righting wrongs, it is energizing and brings about signs of the mercy of God.”
As refugees face an unknown road ahead on their journey to citizenship, Sister Dorothy felt that the Lights for Liberty Vigil was a good reminder of how she is called to act and “challenged to do more.”