Earlier this summer, CAME (Centro de Atención al Migrante Exodus), the migrant shelter in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, celebrated its 25th anniversary. Established in 2000 by the Sagrada Familia Catholic Church, CAME has undergone several changes to meet the needs of the migrants who come to Agua Prieta. Originally located at the church, it moved to a larger location in 2021. Initially, hosting Mexican men sent back from the US by Border Patrol, CAME later received families and single people from Mexico, Central and South America, Cuba, and Russia who were waiting to request asylum in the US. When it began, it provided food and shelter; it now offers emotional, psychological, educational, and social support as well.
The anniversary event lasted for five days and celebrated the accomplishments of CAME, the support of Sagrada Familia, and the contributions of the many volunteers and other organizations that have worked at the centre over the years. Beginning with a mass at the church on Sunday and ending on Thursday with a banquet at the shelter and the unveiling of a new mural, the celebration also included panel discussions, testimonials, and the premiere of Exodus. This film shows the work at CAME within the context of the underlying causes of Mexican migration.
- Pray with the staff and volunteers at CAME to “support (them) in spreading awareness and creating a supportive, inclusive society that stands up to violence.”
- Give thanks for the witness and work of Mochila and Armando, members of Sagrada Familia, who have volunteered at CAME from the beginning.
- Give thanks for the tireless devotion of Betto, the director at CAME for the last 10 years.
- Pray prayers of gratitude for the many individuals and organizations worldwide who are responding to the needs of migrating people.
- Pray that those in power in government and business will develop policies that will address issues of human rights, climate change, and economic justice.
