The Franciscan Network for Migrants met as an assembly whose objective was to evaluate 2021 and create an action plan for 2022
On Saturday, February 19, the annual assembly of the Franciscan Network for Migrants took place, with the participation of the shelters and houses of refuge, La 72, Frontera Digna , San Francisco de Mazatlán Shelter and Kitchen, the Cholula, Puebla kitchen, as well as the presence of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, the participation of the community in Elfrida, Arizona, and the teams from Honduras and Colombia.
Despite being on a virtual platform, the work of the assembly could be carried out in small groups that discussed questions that guided reflection, dialogue and sharing in plenary. For several of the participants there was a great richness in meeting and observing the path traveled in the construction of the fabric of the Franciscan Network for Migrants. During the dialogues within the working groups, the shadows we faced during 2021 were verbalized and noted, as well the rainbows that guided us along the way and the treasures we found.
Reflection on and discernment for 2022 were emphasized in the “lights” that will guide us for the remaining months. Among these lights are spirituality and the culture of the encounter that generates an awareness that sensitizes the local communities in the reception and respect for the migrant people. Another light that stands out in the Network is discovering ourselves as people of the same spirituality who work and are animated by the same goal. This encourages those who are part of the RFM to continue with the work.
Finally, the question of the relationship and inclusion of migrants within organizational structures and within the FNM provoked provoked significant dialogue. As we reflected on this issue within the context of our identity, vision, and mission, and these became clearer. Towards the end of the Assembly, some important announcements were shared, among them, the training in the use of digital media for those in charge of communication of the houses and teams of the FNM.
