Borderland Update from Rev. Mike Wallens
The Rev. Michael Wallens, Vicar, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Marfa, TX
This week’s Borderland Update comes from The Rev. Michael Wallens, Vicar of St. Paul’s in Marfa, TX. Mike oversees the ministry of RGBM in the Big Bend region of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande, working with our partners in Ojinaga and Boquilla, Mexico, and with our partners in the US side of the borderlands. Mike recently met with the Border Patrol in his area to discuss how RGBM will be a response when Title 42 is lifted, ensuring that our migrant neighbors are embraced in the service of justice, the interest of dignity, and the spirit of love.
Be sure to watch the entire video to hear an update from Robinson Ford, a youth in our diocese who founded Saved Soles, an organization that collects shoes for migrants. To learn more about Saved Soles and get involved, contact savedsolesformigrants@gmail.com.
Looking to get engaged with Rio Grande Borderland Ministries as a volunteer? Contact our Bridge Chaplain Ana Reza (areza@dioceserg.org) to learn more!
To make a gift in support of the work of RGBM, click the button below.
RGBM Cycle of Prayer
Together We Are Praying For:
We are thanking God that the U.S. resettled over 1,500 refugees in June. While this number is far below the average, we are celebrating this progress. Your advocacy played a part in welcoming these refugees. Thank God for those who are willing to speak up for those waiting for their chance to resettle and rebuild their lives.
As the administration made announcements this week of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement leadership nominations, we were reminded to pray for those in the agency. They face enormous obstacles and complicated systems. As they work together to find solutions to difficult problems, may they have wisdom and lead with compassion and humility.
Please pray for DREAMers who have been waiting to adjust their legal status for nearly a decade. Pray for lawmakers to work together and set aside partisanship for the good of DACA recipients and their families.
We know all people are made in the image of God and deserving of love and care. Thank you for learning and praying with us and leaning into this kind of welcoming love.