Welcome the Strangers Among Us
On Nov. 5, 2008, Bishop Anthony B. Taylor released his first pastoral letter as bishop of Little Rock. "I Was a Stranger and You Welcomed Me: A Pastoral Letter on the Human Rights of Immigrants," challenges us to open our minds and hearts to Christ's teachings as well as learn the plight of immigrants seeking a better life in the United States.
On Nov. 23, the feast of Christ the King, the letter was distributed at all parishes throughout the state. A recorded homily from the bishop explains why he wrote the letter. To listen in English, click here. Bishop Taylor asks all Catholics in Arkansas to study the letter by participating in a three-week Advent Study Guide developed by Little Rock Scripture Study.
The sessions were held in churches through Dec. 20. The bishop introduced the letter to Arkansas' priests Nov. 5 and to diocesan employees Nov. 7 during a study day at St. John Catholic Center. He held a press conference to explain it to the public on Nov. 6. Read about it in Arkansas Catholic or download the pastoral letter and its companion materials.