St. Peter’s Social Justice Ministry hosted a “Season of Faithful Witness” prayer service that allowed participants to stand in solidarity with immigrants.CHARLOTTE — About 75 people came out to stand in support of immigrants at a special prayer service June 20 in the meditation garden at St. Peter Church.
The service was organized by the Uptown Charlotte parish’s Social Justice Ministry as part of the “Season of Faithful Witness” initiative. This nationwide effort is coordinated through Catholics in Communion – a coalition of Catholic organizations, communities and leaders responding to challenges currently facing immigrants and vulnerable families. The group focuses on prayer, public witness and faithful action.
“Catholics across the country are gathering in public spaces to bear faithful witness to the dignity of every person,” said Jesuit Father Mark Scalese, parochial vicar at St. Peter. “We gather because we believe we are one Body in Christ. And when members of that body are suffering – when families are afraid, when neighbors feel forgotten, when human dignity is threatened – our faith calls us to respond with prayer, solidarity and courage.”
The service included songs and Scripture readings focused on the plight of migrants and refugees, as well as passages from a message Pope Leo XIV prepared for the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees in 2025. Participants also heard from Charlotte-area immigrants who have faced challenges. Charlotte Bishop Michael Martin has repeatedly called for outreach and support for immigrants in public statements.
As Father Scalese noted, “We come together to ask God to open our hearts, strengthen our courage, and help us become what we receive in the Eucharist: the Body of Christ for the life of the world.”
— Christina Lee Knauss