Pope Leo XIV has appointed two men of Latin American origin as bishops in the United States. This decision sends a powerful signal of hope and recognition for the many migrants who have found a new home in the country. One of the new bishops, Evelio Menjivar-Ayala, experienced a particularly dramatic escape story: at age 20, in 1990, he traveled from El Salvador in the trunk of a car, crossing illegally near Tijuana into California. Today, 35 years later, he is the bishop of Wheeling-Charleston in West Virginia.
His calling shows that God can bring good out of even the most difficult circumstances. The Christian message of hope and new beginnings comes alive in such life stories. The Church thus acknowledges that migrants are not merely objects of charity but can themselves be called to lead and serve.
The Biblical Call to Hospitality
The Bible repeatedly speaks of the believers' responsibility toward strangers and migrants. In the Old Testament it says:
“Do not oppress a foreigner; you yourselves know how it feels to be foreigners, because you were foreigners in Egypt.” (Exodus 23:9, NIV)This call to hospitality and protection of the vulnerable is a central part of the Christian faith. The appointment of bishops with migrant backgrounds underscores this biblical perspective and reminds congregations that all people are made in the image of God.
In the New Testament, the letter to the Hebrews encourages believers:
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2, NIV)The Church is called to be a place of openness and welcome. With their own experience, the new bishops can help congregations become more sensitive to the needs and opportunities of migration.
The Importance of Diversity in the Church
The Catholic Church in the United States is increasingly shaped by Latino believers. About 40 percent of Catholics in the U.S. are of Hispanic origin. Appointing bishops who represent this community is an important step toward a more inclusive Church. Pope Leo XIV thus continues the tradition of his predecessors, who also valued diversity in the hierarchy.
The two new bishops bring not only their cultural heritage but also the experience of migration. They understand firsthand the challenges immigrants face. This can help the Church improve its ministry to migrants and advocate even more strongly for their rights.
A Personal Look at the Calling
Bishop Menjivar-Ayala said in an initial statement: “I am infinitely grateful to the Lord for guiding me on this path. My story is a testimony that God has a plan for each of us, even when we go through difficult times.” His words echo the promise from the book of Jeremiah:
“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, NIV)This hope sustains many migrants and encourages them to keep going despite obstacles.
What Does This Mean for Local Congregations?
The appointment of the new bishops is not only a symbolic act but has concrete impacts on parish work. The bishops are encouraged to promote programs for migrant integration, offer services in Spanish, and celebrate cultural diversity in their communities. They also
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