Searching for a horizon full of hope
ENCOUNTER AT CATHOLIC CHARITIES
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A journey made with hope for a better future is taken by many who leave their native country.
They hope to find a new horizon full of opportunities for themselves and their loved ones.
For many like Martin, leaving their land was a difficult decision.
Such task is not to be qualified as an adventure, but as a brave decision.
A permanent resident since 1990, Martin, a native from Mexico, decided to go through the process to become a U.S. citizen after 32 years.
His family is well stablished in La Monte, Missouri and his beautiful granddaughter was born in this country.
Martin was ready to embrace this nation’s nationality!
The day had come!
Martin received his citizenship certificate on the morning of August 19, 2022, at the Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, among other 502 new citizens of 94 different nationalities.
Martin, is an example of many permanent residents that contribute with their Christian values and heart to the United States society.
Like Martin, those who trust in God will see the fulfillment of his promises: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” Jeremiah 29:11.
It is good to know that, even if the process appears to be intimidating for some, no one has to go through it by themselves.
Citizenship Day, proclaimed by the president of the United States along with Constitution Day or Week, is an opportunity for immigrant advocates, service providers and friends of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC) to call attention to the important role that immigrants have played in the development and growth of our country, and in our local communities.
Citizenship Day was first proclaimed by President Harry Truman in 1952 and has been observed in some fashion every year since.
A federal law enacted by Congress in December 2004 designated September 17 as “Constitution Day” and “Citizenship Day” to recognize the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787.
This day enshrines — what was then and is now — a nation of immigrants.
Learn more about Citizenship Day from CLINIC online at cliniclegal.org
Ilsi Palacios is the Hispanic Community Services Coordinator for Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri.
Based in Sedalia, Missouri and operating out of a satellite office housed by St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Ilsi provides case management and helps connect Spanish-speaking families to resources and services that enhance their lives and support their faith journeys, which sometimes includes referring them to the Family Immigration Services program or assisting them with the pursuit of citizenship.
To learn more about the requirements to start the application process, visit uscis.gov/citizenship/apply-for-citizenship.
To learn how Catholic Charities supports legal immigration needs, visit cccnmo.diojeffcity.org/family-immigration.
