Refugee Holy Family
by L V. Diaz
Dear Friends of Casa Juan Diego,
As we await the coming of the Messiah, who comes to us as a child at Christmas, we are conscious of how vulnerable the Lord was as a child and throughout his life.
The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign pf cpntradotcton (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts moy be revealed.”
This reminds us of how precarious life is also at Casa Juan Diego, a small microcosm of the Body of Christ. After the time of Jesus’ birth, people were on edge because of what was happening in the world around them. The people we have served for forty years are also frightened, not knowing what will happen tomorrow.
We continue our work, feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, and giving hospitality. We ask the prayers of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the saints, and all our readers. We do not receive government funds. We depend on you, our readers, to sustain us in this work
Sometimes people think that Casa Juan Diego is run by one person with the help of a few others. That has never been true. In addition to full-time people who live and work in the houses, countless friends and volunteers help every day.
The collaboration of many has been especially noticeable this summer because I (Louise) have been ill and often not able to be physically present.
In spite of my illness, the work of Casa Juan Diego continues, providing over 900 bags of groceries each week to families; our program of assistance to the disabled, the paralyzed people who were the victims of car accidents, those who cannot receive government funds; and our medical clinics for the poor undocumented each day.
We cannot name all the people who help, but here are a few: Allison, Anne, Annette, Bea, Daniel, Dawn, Jeannette, John, Jose, Juanita, Julia, Kevin, Lenore, Lupita, Mary, Manuel, Meg, Monica, Noemí, Stephen, Susan, Taína, Wilmer, the summer Notre Dame students, and the many other volunteers who help with the works of mercy at Casa Juan Diego each day.
Each gift given by those who help to keep Casa Juan Diego going, whether in time or a monetary donation, is a participation in God’s healing love for the poor.
We ask your prayers and support for the coming year.
Sincerely in Christ.
Louise Zwick and all at Casa Juan Diego
