Transcription
Welcome to the Family Theology course. In this course, we explore biblical foundations of family life. With the guidance of Professor Alto, you will learn about the challenges and blessings of family life. Discover how to apply theological principles to your own life, family unit, and community. With dedication, begin your journey. [Música] [Aplausos]
Olá, tudo bem com você? Aqui estamos para mais uma aula, a aula de número C. [Música] Our lesson, number CCO, is on the challenges faced by emigrant families. We will be studying several interesting topics today: cultural and linguistic adaptation; economic and occupational instability; distance and disconnection from family and community ties; pressure to maintain cultural traditions and identity; legal and residency status issues; access to education and healthcare; and integration and acceptance into the local community.
Introducing our lesson today: Migration, or rather, immigration, has been a constant reality throughout human history. In the Bible, we see many examples of families facing the challenge of emigrating. In Genesis 12:1, we find: "Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your kindred, and your father’s house to the land that I will show you.’" From Abraham, called to leave his homeland for an unknown land (Genesis 12:1), to the Israelites living as foreigners in Egypt (Exodus 1:1-14), the Bible approaches migration with a perspective that acknowledges both challenges and potential blessings. In modern society, emigrant families face a series of complex challenges affecting their adaptation, stability, and well-being. This lesson will examine these challenges in light of scripture, offering a biblical understanding and pastoral practices to support these families.
First, we will discuss cultural and linguistic adaptation. Adapting to a new culture and language is one of the first challenges immigrant families face. "Language is the gateway to a culture," a phrase I told my children when we came here almost 20 years ago. Understand the importance of this truth. The Bible acknowledges the difficulty of living in a foreign culture. In Psalm 137:1, we read about the exiled Israelites in Babylon struggling to sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land. A detail that happens at this time and is common to those who migrate is alienation. Alienation can be understood as a state in which the individual feels disconnected, separated, or estranged from something that should be natural or familiar. Faced with this, the migrant creates a comfort zone, like the Jews who sought to sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land to feel at home. This feeling of alienation can be intense for families in an environment where the language, social norms, and cultural values are different from their own. People who emigrate to another culture, over the years, do not feel they belong to either their culture of origin or the culture in which they live. So they create another culture, a third way, bringing together people of the same migratory conditions. In his anthropological missionary works, Rio speaks extensively about this. He is one of the world's leading authorities on contextualization. Born in 1932 and deceased in 2007, he was a renowned Christian anthropologist and missiologist known for his significant contributions to the study of anthropology applied to missiology and cultural context in the missionary context. He was born in India, the son of missionaries, and his life experience in a multicultural context profoundly influenced his academic and practical approach. It is important to know the cultural aspects of a society. I was in Cape Town in 1988, the capital of South Africa, at a restaurant for dinner, and a citizen dressed elegantly like a British lord entered and positioned himself at the table in a strategic location of the restaurant where he was visible to everyone. At one point, he removed a handkerchief from one of his pockets that looked more like a king-size California bedsheet and blew his nose in a way that looked like a volcano erupting. While I was impacted by that attitude, no one in the restaurant found it strange, as it was something normal in that culture. However, during breakfast, I was warned when trying to reach for the sugar that was on the opposite side of the corner of the table where I was, and I tried to do it discreetly, sliding my right arm without interrupting the conversation between the people to my right and left. I was advised to interrupt the conversation and request the sugar from the person closest to it. These are cultural issues that need to be respected. Cultural and linguistic adaptation requires patience, humility, and openness to learning. The Apostle Paul, when preaching the Gospel, demonstrated an extraordinary ability to adapt to different cultural contexts (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). For Christian families who emigrate, there is a need to learn the new language and culture without compromising their faith and values. This can be facilitated through language learning programs, participation in local communities that respect their origins, and the search for churches that offer services in their mother tongue. Here in the United States, there are several Christian churches that offer English courses for immigrants.
Another important aspect is economic and occupational instability. It is natural for people to face difficulties in these areas. Economic and occupational instability is another significant challenge for immigrant families. When you arrive in a new country, there is immediately an identity crisis: Who am I? Why am I who I wasn't yesterday? What I was in my country of origin is left behind. Identity is zeroed out, and it is necessary to rebuild identity within the reality of the new country in which one resides. The person feels visually impaired because they do not know where to go and resolve things; they cannot understand the new language, therefore they feel hearing impaired; they cannot communicate in the new language, and they feel vocally impaired. And because they do not have the regulated situation to obtain a driver's license, they feel without the power of motion, that is, quadriplegic. This is the scenario that the immigrant faces when arriving in a new culture. When moving to a new country, it is essential to acquire a profession that allows you to earn fees in the local currency, and you will not always start in the profession you held in your country of origin. The important thing is to start and be able to pay the bills with humility, planning, and determination. Pay attention to this phrase: small beginnings for great journeys. The example in the Bible that illustrates the importance of acquiring a profession in a new country and starting from the bottom, investing in humility, planning, and determination, is the story of Joseph in the Old Testament. Joseph was sold by his brothers as a slave and taken to Egypt, where he was bought by Potiphar, captain of Pharaoh's guard. Even as a young foreigner in an unknown land, Joseph dedicated himself to his work with zeal and integrity, gaining Potiphar's trust and being placed as administrator of his entire house. Despite the difficulties and adversities he faced at the beginning of his journey in Egypt, Joseph did not lose heart. He worked hard, demonstrated competence in his duties, and showed humility in accepting the circumstances in which he found himself, even though he was far from his homeland and occupying a position far below his true vocation and abilities. Over time, Joseph became known for his abilities and his integrity, culminating in being appointed by Pharaoh as governor of Egypt, exerting significant influence in the country and being able to help save not only Egypt but also his own family from famine. The story of Joseph teaches us the importance of being persevering, humble, and working with dedication even in the face of adversity. When seeking a profession in a new country, it is essential not to be discouraged by obstacles, but rather to show resilience, determination, and willingness to grow and adapt to circumstances, trusting that God can open doors and use even the most difficult situations to bless us and lead us to the purpose He has for our lives. This not only facilitates integration into society and provides financial support but also promotes independence and self-sufficiency. To achieve this goal, it is essential to have humility and patience and to understand that the process of getting a job and establishing oneself in a new country takes time and effort. Having humility means being open to learning and adapting to new circumstances, such as cultural differences and the demands of the local job market. It is important to recognize that it may be necessary to start from the bottom and progress gradually, acquiring experience and skills along the way. Patience is another essential quality in this process, as things often do not happen as quickly as we would like, from the search for job opportunities to obtaining necessary licenses or certifications, and it is necessary to have patience to deal with the challenges and setbacks that may arise. It is also vitally important to understand the essence of taking one step at a time, following the principle of step-by-step. This attitude is crucial for achieving professional success in a new country. Setting realistic goals, dividing the process into smaller steps, and celebrating achievements along the way helps maintain focus and motivation. The example of my son-in-law, who has a degree in administration and economics, arrived in the United States and developed an exemplary career plan, serves as an excellent model of how to start from scratch, build knowledge and experience in the foreign job market, and eventually create your own business. Let's analyze the steps of this career plan in detail. The first thing my son-in-law did was analyze and choose the area of activity. His first step was to conduct a careful analysis of the available job opportunities and identify the area of interest to work in. This stage involved considering his knowledge, skills, and previous experiences, as well as the demand of the job market in the United States. The second attitude of my son-in-law was that he started on the factory floor. Opting to start at the most basic level of the production line, in this case the factory floor, demonstrated my son-in-law's willingness to understand the internal workings of the company, learn through practice, and gain experience gradually. The third thing he emphasized was knowledge of the business behind the scenes. Working in different areas and levels of the company, he had the opportunity to deeply understand all the processes, challenges, and opportunities of the business, developing comprehensive knowledge about the internal workings of the company. His fourth attitude was progression and the attainment of new positions. Based on the acquired knowledge and dedication to work, my son-in-law was able to progress and achieve new responsibilities and challenges within the organization, demonstrating his potential and commitment. The fifth stage he overcame was the establishment of his own company. After accumulating enough knowledge and experience, my son-in-law felt prepared for his own business, applying all the learning acquired throughout his career and building a successful company. This example highlights the importance of being persistent, flexible, and willing to start from the bottom to build a solid career in a new country. A well-structured career plan, coupled with effort, commitment, and a willingness to learn, can be the key to professional and personal success, allowing individuals like my son-in-law and others to achieve their goals and realize their dreams in foreign lands. In addition, the example demonstrates the importance of being humble, persistent, and having a long-term vision when charting a path of professional growth and development. In short, when seeking a profession in a new country and earning in the local currency, it is essential to cultivate humility, have patience, and adopt a gradual and methodical approach. With determination and perseverance, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve professional success anywhere in the world. In Deuteronomy 28:1-14, I want to invite you to look up this passage in your Bible. God promises economic blessings to his people if they obey his commandments. However, immigrant families often face difficulties in finding stable, well-paying jobs, often being forced to accept jobs below their qualifications or offering precarious conditions. The Bible encourages us to work as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24). For immigrant families, it is important to maintain dignity and purpose in their work, trusting that God is their provider. In addition, the local Christian community can play a crucial role in offering support in the form of employment networks, financial counseling, and training programs.
Another important point that someone who emigrates faces is the distance and disconnection from family and community ties. The physical distance from family members and the disconnection from community ties is one of the deepest emotional difficulties faced by immigrant families. The Bible deeply values family and community ties. In Ruth 1:16-17, we see Ruth's commitment to her mother-in-law Naomi, an example of family loyalty amidst displacement. Separation from loved ones can cause loneliness, depression, and a feeling of uprooting. The loss of family and social relationships is one of the losses that needs to be managed properly to avoid causing greater damage and side effects. When I came to the United States, I had a checkup with a cardiologist. He asked me if it was a routine exam or if something had surprised me in the area of health. I replied that I was doing the checkup because I was changing countries, and knowing where I was going, he shared two pieces of advice with me: first, to maintain the diet I had always had throughout my life, avoiding fast food and some American styles here concerning food; the second piece of advice was to bring a collection of popular Brazilian music for moments of sadness. This advice was interesting and important at the time, you know why? Because friends from the country of origin do not have the same intensity of longing that we have for them. Did you know this? When we visit friends in our country of origin, we often feel intense longing for them, but the feeling is not always mutual. Why does this happen? The reason lies in the change of perspective and the experience of leaving. When we leave our country of origin and move to another place, especially far from friends and family, our worldview expands. We miss the people, places, and memories we left behind. The physical distance increases the longing and makes us value these ties even more. On the other hand, those who remain in their country of origin continue with their daily routines and experiences. For them, life goes on normally, and the absence is not as felt. They do not experience the same feeling of loss and distance that we feel. In addition, the lack of frequent contact, because life goes on, contributes to the longing in us growing. When we cannot share laughter and conversations with our friends, the memory of them becomes even more significant. Absence creates an empty space that can only be filled when we reunite. Therefore, it is natural that when we visit our country of origin, we feel a mixture of joy and nostalgia. Longing is a powerful feeling capable of connecting us with the people and places we love, even from a distance. And who knows, maybe this shared longing is what unites us even more to our friends, even when we are separated by oceans and borders. Christians are called to be a family to one another, especially to those who are alone and helpless (James 1:27). The church can help fill this gap by creating a welcoming and supportive environment where immigrants can find friendship, spiritual support, and a sense of belonging. Support groups, community events, and pastoral visits are all effective ways to help these immigrant families connect with the local community.
Another very important aspect is the pressure to maintain cultural traditions and identity. Have you ever faced pressure to maintain a cultural tradition from your country of origin? Maintaining traditions and cultural identity in an environment that may be hostile or indifferent to these practices is a significant challenge. The scriptures show that cultural identity can be maintained while living in a foreign land. In Daniel 1:8-20, Daniel and his friends maintained their dietary and religious practices even while in Babylon, and God blessed them for their faithfulness in wholesome things of their culture that do not offend the culture of the country to which you have migrated; keep them, for they have their benefits. Also know the reality of the country. For example, the Pilgrim Fathers came from Plymouth, South England, fleeing religious persecution in search of freedom to the United States. They came on the Mayflower; 102 pilgrims. I have even preached at the Congregational Church of Plymouth, England, from where six of its members left to be with this group of 102 pilgrims who came to the United States. Upon arriving here, they landed on this rock you see there, dated 1620, and erected important landmarks depicted in this statue that we will see about the Pilgrim Fathers; that is, this country had its initial mark with immigrants. The National Monument to the Ancestors, formerly known as the Pilgrim Monument, is a historical monument located at 72 Leyden Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts. It commemorates the explorers who arrived in North America on the Mayflower, known as the Pilgrim Fathers. This monument was inaugurated on August 1, 1889, and pays homage to its ideals, which were later widely adopted throughout the United States. It is possibly the largest solid granite monument in the world, at 244.7 m high. If it weren't for the Civil War, which hampered resources, this statue would be twice its current size. On the main pedestal is a heroic figure with his right hand pointing to the sky and his left hand holding the Bible. On the four buttresses are also seated emblematic figures of the principles on which the pilgrims who arrived in the region founded their society. In a counterclockwise direction starting from the East, they are morality, law, education, and liberty. Each was carved from a solid block of granite, placed in a seated position on chairs with a high relief of smaller features on each side. Above them stand prophet, evangelist, justice, and mercy. Under education are youth and wisdom, and under liberty are tyranny overthrown and peace. On the faces of the buttresses below these figures are high reliefs in marble representing scenes from the history of these explorers. Above morality is the ship, above law is the treaty, above education is the compact, and above liberty is the landing. These are the four faces of the main pedestal. I was there in 1995. There are large panels for various inscriptions. The front panel is inscribed as follows: "National Monument to Our Ancestors, erected by a grateful people in memory of their labors, sacrifices, and sufferings in the cause of civil and religious liberty." The right and left panels contain the names of those who came on the Mayflower—the list with the 102 names. The rear panel, which was not engraved until recently, contains a quote from the famous history of William Bradford, governor of Plymouth: "Thus out of small beginnings great things have been produced by His hand that made all things of nothing, and gives being to all things that are; and as a small spark may kindle a great fire, so a small beginning may bring forth great things." "Let all praise be unto the Glorious Name of Jehovah." Another monument, the Statue of Liberty, was a gift from France to commemorate the centennial of the independence of the United States. In the famous poem by Emma Lazarus, we find: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door." The foundation of this country was built from immigrants. So there is room for immigrants to continue arriving and contributing, but orderly, so that what is happening in Europe does not happen here. We need to build positively in this country. Why did we come to the United States? Because we wanted something better than what we had in our country of origin. We should not do here what immigrants are doing in Europe. Here are ten issues and challenges that have been associated with the arrival of refugees and immigrants and the growth of the foreign population in Europe. It is important to note that these points reflect common concerns and debates. First, cultural and social: The challenge of integrating refugees and immigrants into European societies can create tensions, especially when there are significant differences in cultural values and social practices. Second, radicalization and extremism: There are concerns that some refugees and immigrants may become vulnerable to radicalization among them, especially if they face social and economic exclusion. Third, the overburdening of social welfare systems: The arrival of large numbers of refugees and immigrants can overburden health, education, and social assistance systems, especially in countries already facing economic challenges. Fourth, crime and security: Although most refugees and immigrants seek a peaceful life, some sectors of European society have expressed concerns about increased crime and security in certain areas. Fifth, unemployment and competition for jobs: The arrival of new workers can intensify competition for jobs, especially in low-skilled sectors, potentially increasing unemployment among the native population. Sixth, the growth of nationalism and xenophobia: Mass immigration has contributed to the rise of nationalist and xenophobic movements that use fear of the other as a political platform. Seventh, demographic changes: The growth of migrant populations can alter the demographic composition of certain countries and regions, leading to debates about national identity and social cohesion. Eighth, challenges to religious freedom and secularism: In some countries, there are concerns about how to balance religious freedom with the secularity of the state, especially with regard to visible Islamic practices such as the wearing of the veil and other activities that have taken place, such as train explosions and other things. The issue of immigration and Islamization has standardized politics in many European countries, with far-right parties gaining support by exploiting these concerns. Ninth, cultural and value conflicts: Differences in values related to issues such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and freedom of expression can create conflicts between immigrant communities and the native population. Tenth, It is necessary that we understand that these problems are complex and multidimensional, and solutions require balanced approaches based on dialogue and mutual understanding. In addition, many of these issues are intensely debated and involve a variety of perspectives. The great truth is that this country has opened its doors to immigrants; this country of the United States. However, there is also attention between the preservation of culture and the need to adapt to the new environment. Romans 14:5-6 speaks of the freedom Christians have in cultural matters, encouraging respect for each other's beliefs. Immigrant families should be encouraged to maintain their cultural traditions that do not contradict the Christian faith, while at the same time learning to integrate into the new culture. The church can support this by offering spaces where cultural diversity is celebrated and respected.
Another issue is legal and residency status issues. Legal and residency status issues are often a source of great uncertainty and anxiety for immigrant families. The Bible teaches the importance of submitting to governmental authorities (Romans 13:1-7), but it also acknowledges God's justice in defending the rights of foreigners (Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 10:18-19). Precarious legal situations can expose families to exploitation, fear of deportation, and difficulty accessing basic services. The church has a prophetic and pastoral role in supporting these families. This may include legal assistance, advocacy for just immigration policies, and the creation of ministries specifically to help immigrants navigate the complex legal system. In Matthew 25:35, Jesus praises those who welcome the stranger, indicating that this is a practical expression of Christian love.
Another issue is access to education and healthcare. Access to education and healthcare is a fundamental right that is often denied or limited to immigrant families. The Bible values education and health care (Proverbs 4:7; 3 John 1:2). However, language barriers, lack of legal documentation, and discrimination can hinder access to these services. The church can play a crucial role in offering language schools, literacy programs, helping families enroll in schools and healthcare services, and even organizing community health clinics. In addition, the church can collaborate with other organizations to provide resources and information on how to access these services safely and effectively.
Integration and acceptance into the community is another important theme. Integration and acceptance into the local community is a challenging process that involves both the immigrant family and the host community. Ephesians 2:19 reminds us that in Christ we are no longer strangers and foreigners but members of God's family. This principle should guide churches and Christian communities to be intentional in welcoming and integrating immigrants. Integration does not only mean cultural adaptation but also full inclusion in the social, economic, and spiritual life of the community. This can be facilitated through initiatives such as cultural integration classes, mentoring programs, and opportunities for immigrants to contribute their gifts and skills to the church and society. By practicing hospitality (Hebrews 13:2), the Christian community demonstrates the love of Christ and strengthens the bonds of unity and peace.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by emigrant families are complex and multifaceted, ranging from cultural adaptation to legal and economic issues. However, the scriptures offer guidance and hope for these challenges. The church has the responsibility to support these families by providing a welcoming environment, offering practical and spiritual assistance, and defending the rights and dignity of immigrants. By following the biblical principles of love, justice, and hospitality, the Christian community can help immigrant families navigate the challenges of their new lives, integrating fully into society while maintaining their identity and faith. In an increasingly globalized world where migration is a constant reality, the church has the opportunity and the calling to be a light that guides and sustains those who are far from their homeland. By placing God at the center of their lives, praying continually, seeking wisdom, and cultivating spiritual resilience, Christian families can withstand the pressures of the challenges of an emigrant family and live in harmony with God's will. May He bless you, your family, and your new journey in a new reality of life.