When I consider who I am, I identify myself broadly (and from my Baptism) as an adopted child of God.  I am first and foremost a Catholic who seeks daily to live as a disciple of Christ.  I live in the United States and am proud to be an American.  I see myself therefore, as a Catholic American with Catholicism and what it teaches me to be through the Gospels and the Tradition of the Church leading my thoughts and actions.

Last weekend I quoted Bishop Taylor in speaking of undocumented residents of our state whose lives and livlihood would indeed benefit from a change in Arkansas Law that would permit them to get a driver's license.  Afterwards, I heard someone come out of church and immediately refer to these same people as "illegals."  I knew before I preached last weekend's homily, that some would react negatively to what I presented.  I pray, while I am on retreat this week, that everyone would at least read what the bishop says are reasons for us to sign the petition that urges the change in law I mentioned.

This weekend there is an insert that is a summary of our bishop's Pastoral teaching from a few years ago on immigration.  I invite everyone to take time to read it, and pray before you do so, with an open mind and heart.  Ask the Lord to fill everyone's heart with compassion, the compassion that led Him to reach out with a loving hand to so many who were on the margins and/or who were rejected by others and seen by some as not worthy of help.  The petition I spoke of, will remain in the narthex for a week or so more, if you are led to sign it.  God bless you and all of God's children.