Images and Their Power in the Developing of a Theology of Migration

The Reality of Latin American Migrants in the U.S.

Abstract

This article is about images and their power to arouse emotions leading to specific actions.  In our present U.S. socio-political discussion about migration policy, images can lead to actions of fear and xenophobia-dislike or prejudice against people from other countries. Images from the Bible, however, whether visual or not, usually lead to xenophilia—the love for those who are strangers, aliens, and foreign sojourners. The development of a Christian Migration Theology challenges the perennial temptation of xenophobia with xenophilia. Why? Because those whom we usually find very difficult to love are in their powerlessness and vulnerability the sacramental presence of Christ. Our colleague Gordon Straw understood the Christian calling for xenophilia and practiced it in his ministry and teaching.  To him and all those that continue to follow his example is dedicated this article.