Like many people, I am worried about what is happening to my immigrant and refugee brothers 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 24th:
I repent for benefitting from the labors and sufferings of others without awareness.

Read Deuteronomy 6:10-13

Pray Psalm 51

Litany:
For the times I have made purchases without concern for the workers who produce what I buy. Kyrie eleison. Lord, have mercy.

For the times when I have valued my comfort over my principles. Kyrie eleison. Lord, have mercy.

For the times that I have unquestioningly treated people as commodities. Kyrie eleison. Lord, have mercy.

Our Father…

Good and gracious God, you give us all that we need. Help me to place all my trust in you so that I may open my heart and share willingly and generously with my brothers and sisters.