Aristides de Sousa Mendes

Holy God, I give thanks for the former refugees, now in their 80s and 90s, who gathered in France last week to honor the man who helped them escape the Nazis. Aristides de Sousa Mendes was a Portuguese diplomat who defied government orders by granting visas to Jewish families fleeing persecution. The elders remembered his courage and asked for action to aid refugees today. Bless the memory of Aristides de Sousa Mendes. Bless the former refugees who are advocating for current asylum seekers. Bless every person who contributes--in any way--to the well-being of those forced to flee their homes in search of peace and safety. Amen.