Community Spotlight: Cuban and Haitian Families
Today, we walk alongside Cuban and Haitian families.
For many years, families from Cuba and Haiti have sought safety and stability in the United States after facing political instability, economic hardship, violence, and recurring natural disasters. Many have arrived carrying uncertainty while hoping to build lives of peace, opportunity, and freedom for their children.
Today, Cuban and Haitian families are valued members of communities across our nation. They serve as healthcare workers, educators, entrepreneurs, tradespeople, pastors, students, neighbors, and friends. Their cultures, faith, resilience, and generosity strengthen our neighborhoods and enrich the communities they now call home. Yet many continue to live with uncertainty as humanitarian protections change and questions about the future remain.
Today, we pray for Cuban and Haitian families and for all who seek refuge, asking God to surround them with hope, wisdom, and communities of steadfast welcome.
Scripture: Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Reflection
Throughout Scripture, God is revealed as a refuge.
When His people were afraid, He offered shelter. When they were weary, He gave strength. When they were uncertain, He remained faithful. God’s refuge is more than a place of safety – it is the assurance that His presence never leaves us.
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect the heart of the One we worship. While we cannot remove every burden or resolve every uncertainty, we can become communities where people experience friendship instead of isolation, dignity instead of fear, and hope instead of despair.
Many Cuban and Haitian families – and countless others seeking refuge – have built lives in our communities while carrying uncertainty about what tomorrow may hold. Their perseverance reminds us that refuge is not only something God provides; it is something His people are called to embody.
When the Church becomes a place of refuge, people experience something more than safety – they catch a glimpse of the Kingdom of God.
Pilgrim’s Prayer
God of refuge, thank You for being our shelter in every season and our faithful presence in times of uncertainty. Today we pray for Cuban and Haitian families and for all who seek refuge. Strengthen those who are anxious, comfort those who are weary, and guide those whose futures feel uncertain. Teach us to reflect Your heart by becoming people of refuge. May our churches, homes, and neighborhoods be places where every person is welcomed with dignity, compassion, and hope. May all who enter our communities discover the peace and steadfast love that are found in You alone. Amen.
Pilgrim’s Blessing
May the God who is your refuge fill you with His peace. May your life become a place of welcome, your presence a source of hope, and your community a reflection of God’s sheltering love.