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For many, the immigration crisis in the United States remains a distant issue. However, Bishop Joseph J. Tyson of Yakima, Washington, offers firsthand insight into the struggles faced by migrants. His diocese, located in a region known for its agricultural output, relies heavily on migrant labor. During peak harvest times, up to 100,000 migrant farmworkers may be present.
Bishop Tyson addressed attendees at the 2025 Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington on January 27. His session focused on migrants and refugees, whom Pope Francis has referred to as society’s "discarded." He shared stories illustrating the harsh realities these individuals face.
He recounted a harrowing story of a woman from his diocese who was kidnapped while caring for her sick mother in Mexico. The kidnappers demanded $15,000; however, only $7,000 could be raised by her family and co-workers. A chilling note later informed them that the remaining money would result in receiving the rest of her deceased body.
These narratives highlight not only the dangers faced by those Bishop Tyson serves but also the desperation driving their migration decisions.
The Catholic Social Ministry Gathering coincided with new executive orders targeting immigration from President Trump's administration. Bishop Tyson emphasized that his diocese is deeply connected to Mexican roots, with most parishioners attending Mass in Spanish.
Bishop Tyson referenced Romans 8:18-27 to discuss themes of redemption and salvation related to human trafficking and creation's dignity. He underscored Pope Francis’ teachings on "integral human ecology," emphasizing that respecting creation enhances human dignity.
He shared another personal account involving Nico, a seminarian from Guatemala who was kidnapped and later brought to the U.S. under threat of continued abductions. Nico’s journey led him to pursue priesthood after experiencing profound personal growth during a retreat.
Bishop Tyson stressed modern slavery's persistence and urged cultivating key relationships highlighted by Pope Francis: with creation, each other, and God. To foster solidarity among seminarians with those they serve, he requires them to work in local fields.
Patient engagement with differing perspectives is vital for building connections and understanding redemption's broader context. Bishop Tyson encouraged asking questions about others' deeply held beliefs as part of this process.
In closing remarks advocating interconnectedness across societal issues like migration and drug flow between nations, Bishop Tyson called for recognizing God's presence in all people and creation despite overwhelming challenges.
"There is not one inch of creation that escapes the salvific power of Christ’s horrific and tortuous death on a cross," he stated emphatically if hearts remain open to such truths.
Kimberley Heatherington reports for OSV News from Virginia.
