Fifteen people walked today from Christ the King Church in North Seattle to St. James Cathedral, about 8 miles, and later, about 50 people walked together from the cathedral to St. Mary's Church, about another mile and a half. Both sets of walks included old and new friends and fellow seekers of justice from different churches and organizations.
As we paced through the residential and commerical neighborhoods of Seattle, people in cars honked and other pedestrians asked what we are doing. Almost all voiced support, but once, while waiting for a group to catch up, a man asked what I was protesting. When I was explained that I was one of a group of pilgrims praying for immigration reform, he wished us luck, but said our cause was hopeless. He has been on my mind ever since; his cynicism or lack of hope grieves me because of signs of hope are all around, from the ripe blackberries we often stopped to savor as we walk to the enthusiasm of so many people for a change in the immigration system. I have been praying that this man find hope soon. And that his hope moves him to work for change.
This evening, at St. Mary's, we were welcomed with tasty food and heartfelt words. Many people present have been working for immigrant rights for years. One man said that not just immigrants suffer injustice, because the current immigration laws that separate families can deprive anyone of the right to love another. Another asked, "What are you doing next?" and Lee replied, " We will do something but each of us can do something now." (posted by Nick)
Tomorrow (Wednesday, August 12) we are walking from St. Mary's in Seattle to St. Thomas Church in Tukwila, about 11 miles. As always, we will gather at about 8:45 a.m. and depart at 9 a.m. Please join us if you are able.
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