My Kino Border Initiative Experience

By Sister Donna Marie Gribschaw, CDP

While in Arizona in the spring of 2023, I had the opportunity to volunteer at Kino Border Initiative—a faith-based organization that fosters bi-national solidarity on the issue of migration on the U.S.-Mexico border through direct assistance and accompaniment, education, research, and advocacy. My experience that day increased my desire to return to Kino, which I did from March 4 to April 5, 2024, and included Holy Week and Easter.

As part of my preparation I read “Voices of the Border: Testimonios of Migration, Deportation, and Asylum.” The book helped me empathize with the migrants’ stories and reflect upon their lived experiences of strength, hope, resilience, and courage. While at Kino, I put my limited Spanish proficiency to use by welcoming and engaging people in simple conversation; interacting with people while serving breakfast and lunch and working in the kitchen; playing games and reading with the children; and sorting and organizing clothes in the “roperia.” I was even able to have an Easter egg hunt and provide candy for the children, with a heart full of gratitude to Sisters and friends.

Words can’t adequately describe the new experiences I had at Kino, especially during the Triduum and Easter Sunday. I saw the transformation in people’s faces after they were at Kino for a few days, knowing they and their children were in a safe place. Their faith and hope in God for a better life were profound examples for me. I was touched by their gratitude at meals as they offered a blessing and voiced, “muchas gracias” to all who served! I witnessed a spirit of support among the children and teens as they hugged one another, played together and spent time in conversation. Providence was visible! Kino is truly a place of radical hospitality where people serve with love and compassion by offering wholistic programming.

Sister Donna Marie (pictured far right) on Easter with the Sisters from other communities with whom she was in community and ministry.