The question that drives this paper is how to approach the issue of immigration in the Hispanic community. At this time, the issue is a volatile one in the country, especially as it is complicated by a massive influx of undocumented immigrants, mainly of Hispanic origin. The historical roots of the current problem are explored, as well as the scriptural and liturgical resources that can be brought to bear on the issue. The purpose is to provide a pastoral response, primarily through preaching. When "the Word became flesh and lived among us" (Jn 1:14), this unique event made possible the continuing incarnation of the Word through the proclamation of Scripture, and the preaching of the Church. There is very little literature on this issue, so the human resources brought to bear upon this issue are as important as the homiletical ones. One element that surprised this preacher was the role of culture - not just that of the congregation, but also that of those of us who enter the pulpit every week. So what follows is the story of how this preacher came to stand alongside the undocumented of his parish, giving them spiritual support, and how another might begin a similar journey. A Sermon Appendix will flesh out the summaries that are given in the text of this paper.
