Catholics take part in cross-country run for plight of workers

Dec 6, 2005 / 22:00 pm

Catholics participating in an annual run, which began at the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City more than one month ago, will arrive in New York City this week. 

The international run is called Antorcha Guadalupana, and it serves as a reminder of workers’ plights in the United States, in particular migrant workers, and of the Church’s commitment to promote human dignity at all times. It also commemorates the migrants who died trying to cross the Mexico-U.S. border in hopes of a better life.

Runners, who are carrying a torch, are expected to arrive in New York City on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Dec. 12. They stopped in a number of dioceses along the way.

Archbishop Jose Gomez of San Antonio had welcomed the runners on one of their first stops in the U.S., Nov. 9, reported Today’s Catholic.

A public performance by matachine dancers from St. Agnes Church was organized on the track of Lanier High School. Participants then proceeded to nearby Our Lady of Guadalupe Church for a 7:30 p.m. liturgy, celebrated by the archbishop.

“We are all sons and daughters of God. We are all children of God,” said the archbishop in his homily. “The Church reminds us to respect every human person.”