Comprehensive Immigration Report No. 260

Reading About Migration and Human Trafficking. A Vatican dicastery for Integral Human Development released two documents related to migration and human trafficking. “Lights on the Ways of Hope” is a collection of papal reflections on migration, refugees and trafficking, which includes Pope Francis’ speeches, homilies, audiences, prayers and documents going back to Easter 2013. “Pastoral Orientations on Human Trafficking” focuses on the reality of human trafficking and responses to the problem. Find out more online.

St. Josephine Bakhita. St. Josephine Bakhita was sold into slavery at an early age, but was later freed and served God in religious life. She died in 1947 and was canonized in 2000. Her feast day is February 8. Click here to see her icon and prayer card.

A Day to Show Love for Refugees. February 14 is more than Valentine’s Day. Mark your calendar to attend the sixth-annual New Americans Celebration sponsored by the Coalition of Refugee Service Agencies (CRSA) at the Georgia State Capitol. Speak to legislators about welcoming people from other countries. More information and registration is available online.

It Is More Than the “Wall.” The “wall” and the federal government dominate the news media, but 2019 will be a year of conflict over other aspects of immigration and migration. Read a summary of upcoming issues, many of which have been with us for a long time.

Disappointment at the Lack of Openness. Sister Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley in the Diocese of Brownsville, other representatives of local agencies working with migrant people and local elected officials offered to speak with President Trump when he visited McAllen, Texas last week. Unfortunately, they were not invited to speak during the roundtable discussion. Read more from America Magazine.