"Advent and Migrants" aims to be a space for reflection on issues of great social and human relevance, with a particular focus on the condition of migrants.

It is an initiative of the International Network of Migrants and Refugees of the UISG, which accompanies us during this time of Advent.

Each week, we will explore a different aspect of their life experience in the light of the Gospel, which guides us on our journey toward Christmas, with the goal of raising awareness and renewing our commitment to those who are forced to leave their homeland.

During the fourth week, the commentary on the Gospel of Luke (1:39-45) is provided by Sr. Lisa Buscher, RSCJ.

"In Luke’s Gospel today, Mary set out in haste…

Setting out “in haste” is a familiar experience for those seeking refuge: running toward family and friends to comfort and support them in their uncertainty and confusion. For people on the move, “setting out in haste” is often fleeing violence, threats, and unimaginable suffering that makes it impossible to stay.

On the journey of thousands of miles on bus, train, and foot, these men, women, and children are often “greeted” by more cruelty and processes that prohibit them from reaching the very support and safety toward which they set out. It is a vicious, dehumanizing process that perpetuates the violence and suffering from which they flee.

In moments of uncertainty and struggle, running toward our dear ones to help us hold life’s circumstances is the norm. Yet for people on the move, no such luck.

This past week we celebrated International Migrants Day on Dec 18 – with more than 120 million people forcibly displaced worldwide. There are 120 million Marys out there making haste toward compassionate, safe places of welcome at this moment.

May the Spirit continue to stir and disturb each of us until there are more Elizabeths among us to receive our brothers and sisters with caring compassion, encountering with joy and welcome those who make haste… for it is then that we recognize God in our midst.