Welcoming the Stranger: Immigration and Catholic Social Teaching
A Community Discussion with Fr. Wayne Dziekan
Wednesday, October 16, 2025 | 6:30–8:30 PM
Parish Center
Called to Love Our Neighbor
Immigration issues fill today’s headlines, but for us as Christians, the call is timeless:
to honor the dignity of the immigrant and refugee as children of God.
Join us as we welcome Fr. Wayne Dziekan, Vicar for Hispanic Ministry for the Diocese of Gaylord, who will share insights into:
- The root causes and on-the-ground realities of our broken immigration system
- The Catholic position on comprehensive immigration reform
- How faith communities can respond with justice, solidarity, and love
Following his presentation, Fr. Dziekan will take questions from the audience.
Light refreshments will be provided. All faiths and denominations are welcome.
Rooted in Scripture
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.”
— Luke 10:27“When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God.”
— Leviticus 19:33-34
Catholic Social Teaching on Immigration
The Church teaches that every human person is created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Gaudium et Spes, 27). From this truth flows a moral obligation to welcome the immigrant and refugee—not only as an act of kindness, but as a matter of justice and charity.
Pope Francis reminds us in Fratelli Tutti:
“Every human being has the right to live with dignity and to develop integrally, and that fundamental right cannot be denied by any country.” (FT 107)
Immigrants and refugees are not burdens, but brothers and sisters who enrich our communities with cultural diversity, economic contributions, and spiritual vitality. Their presence is a living reminder of the Church’s universality and of the Kingdom of God, where all peoples are gathered as one (cf. Caritas in Veritate, 62).
Join the Conversation
Come, listen, and be part of this important community discussion. Together, let us reflect on how to live the Gospel by welcoming the stranger, standing in solidarity, and building a society rooted in justice and peace.
All are welcome. Bring a friend.