Immersion trips are an invaluable part of a student’s formation, providing real-world experiences that foster empathy, cultural understanding, and personal growth beyond the classroom. As a professor at Boston College, I’ve been fortunate to facilitate a course known as Encuentro. This semester-long course for Catholic educators includes a week-long immersion trip to the southern border, near El Paso and Juarez; there we explore the complexities of immigration and education. Let me share a few of my students’ stories.

In Daniel’s Encuentro course, he found that his family’s hardships were not unique, but part of a broader narrative shared by many. This ignited in his heart a desire to become an agent of change, challenging social and structural sins that perpetuate marginalization. 

Through conversations with immigration lawyers, Border Patrol agents, and migrants, Beth encountered the raw realities of migration. Her interaction with the community at Santa Niño School in Juarez exemplified the profound impact of love and solidarity in the face of adversity. The community’s dedication to supporting disabled refugees and migrants, despite limited resources, highlights the essential truth that true support comes from the “power of love” rather than the pursuit of power. 

Confronted with the harsh realities of migration, Erin questioned how Catholic education can better serve immigrant communities. Her experience at the border shattered any illusions of ignorance, instilling a deep sense of responsibility to address and alleviate the suffering of migrants. She felt a broader call for educators to align their practices with the values of empathy and support. 

Dave witnessed firsthand the Diocese of El Paso’s humanitarian efforts. He saw how the Church can be a powerful force for good, offering support where bureaucratic systems fall short. He sees that our schools must understand and support students and families affected by migration, ensuring that empathy and awareness are integral to teaching practices. 

Laura found that migration is not just a search for better opportunities, but often as a desperate attempt at survival. Laura encountered migrants’ stories of suffering and faith. For her, this reaffirmed the presence of God in their struggles and the collective responsibility of the Church and its members to embody Christ’s legacy through compassionate action. 

The overarching theme from these reflections is the profound dignity and humanity of every migrant and their right to an education. These students met migrants and learned of the harsh realities they face – seeking safety, opportunity, and a better life. This ‘living classroom’ reaffirmed our own commitment to a more just and compassionate world. Let us pray this month with Pope Francis for migrants, refugees and those affected by war, that their right to an education may always be respected. 

Dr. Melodie Wyttenbach

Director of the Roche Center for Catholic Education at Boston College, and the author of Seven Steps to Strategic Planning for Catholic School Leaders.