Like many people, I am worried about what is happening to my immigrant and refugee broters and sisters. As a Christian, fasting in prayer and reparation seems an appropriate response.

I am inviting people to participate in a fast on the Fridays of Lent in reparation for what is happening and in intercession for what will happen. How you choose to participate is up to you. You can fast on bread and water, limit your calories, eat a diet typical of refugees (typically porridge or rice and beans). You make the choice and monitor your own participation. No one will check up on you. You may wish to donate the money you would have spent on food to an agency that serves immigrants and refugees.

Each week, I will prepare a brief prayer that you might use either before your fasting meal or at another time during the day.

Here's the prayer for March 3rd:

I repent for my indifference to the sufferings of immigrants and refugees, separated from their families and homelands.

Read Isaiah 58:5-10

Pray Psalm 6, the first of the seven penitential Psalms.

Litany:

For the times I have not valued the family and freedom I enjoy: Kyrie, eleison. Lord, have mercy.

For the times I have turned away from news reports that make me uncomfortable or challenge my indifference: Kyrie, eleison. Lord, have mercy.

For the times I have not offered a welcome to newcomers or have ignored the challenges they face: Kyrie, eleison. Lord, have mercy.

Our Father…

God of mercy and compassion, open my eyes and my heart that I may see the sufferings of my immigrant brothers and sisters and be moved to concrete actions of hospitality and justice.