Yesterday, on my way home through Plainfield, I noticed a young father walking with two very young children, probably around 6 and 2 years old. I found myself wondering what would happen to those children, not to mention their father, should ICE suddenly appear and take him into custody. Then I thought about the mother who had been ta ken by ICE in front of her 7-year old child, leaving him on the street – alone.
This is happening all over America, children bereft of a parent, possibly even both. In the overwhelming number of cases, there are no criminal issues, no “worst of the worst,” a phrase used to try to instill fear in so-called “real” Americans. As a result, not only are children left alone but the elderly as well.
Nursing homes and senior care centers are now reducing the numbers they can take because the pool of immigrants with work authorization are now told to “go home.” We have to ask who will care for the elderly and the children, or will they just be left on their own. In the meantime, of course, we just continue to spiral down while the rich feed off the poor.
Prayer for the Day
We need to feel your presence in our lives, O God,
For you embrace us, reminding us that we are not alone;
We seek an inner truth not found in the world around us,
Moving us to be witnesses of your peace.
May we hold fast to the strength only you can give,
Enabling us to share your love with others.
In the name of the One who embraces us with your strength,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
No matter their job, they are all caregivers. The effect of losing them will be felt by the 4,500 seniors we care for every day. These are the people that clean their rooms, serve their food, lift them to take them to the bathroom and to shower.
Adam Scott, Director, Hebrew Senior Lie Center Boston
We estimate there are more than 4.6 million U.S. citizen children living in the U.S. with at least one unauthorized parent lacking firm legal status, and 2.5 million citizen children living with only unauthorized parents.
Brookings Institution report (May 13, 2026)
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34: 18