Sunday, July 13, 2025

Through the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus challenges human prejudices and social barriers by shifting the focus from who we live among to how we treat one another. He teaches us that loving God and loving others are inseparable and equally essentialcommandments. He reminds us that every person is a child of God, our brother or sister in Christ, and a member of the loving family. He also shows us that true neighborliness is not defined by proximity, similarity, or social status, but by compassion that takes action. It involves sacrifice, effort, and mercy that transcend all religious, ethnic, and cultural boundaries.

Therefore, in communion with Pope Leo XIV, and in solidarity with the Bishops of the Diocese of Orange, we, the parish familyofOur Lady of La Vang, lift our voices and hearts in unwavering support of our immigrant brothers and sisters, who continue to live in fear and uncertainty amid the challenges facing our nation during this period.

We affirm the God-given dignity of every human being, regardless of legal status or place of origin. As disciples of Jesus, who Himself lived as a migrant when His family fled to Egypt, we are called to welcome the stranger, protect the vulnerable, and respect the sacredness of human life.

Together, we stand in prayerful unity for:

• The safety and protection of all migrants, especially families and children who face the daily threat of separation and deportation.
• A spirit of respect and compassion in our communities and social institutions, that the dignity of each person may be honored through our words, policies, and actions.
• A comprehensive and just reform of our immigration system, which prioritizes family unity, provides a pathway to legal residency, and ensures humane treatment for all at our borders and within our communities.

Based on the Gospel and guided by the principles of Catholic Social Doctrine, we commit ourselves to walk with the suffering,tofight for justice and to build up the Our Lady of La Vang parish community in grace, love, faith, and unity.

May our hearts be open like Our Lady of La Vang, Patroness of our parish and Mother of the Church, offering refuge to all whoseek peace, happiness, and freedom.

Sincerely yours in Jesus Christ and Our Lady of La Vang!

Reverend Kiet Anh Ta, Pastor