Border mass aims to bring attention to immigrants

NOGALES, Ariz. (AP) – Catholic leaders will hold the final of three border masses in Arizona this year, and this time the representative of Pope Francis in the U.S. will lead the ceremony.

Dioceses Without Borders will hold a mass along the international border in Nogales, Arizona, and Nogales, Mexico, on Sunday in an effort to bring attention to the plight of migrants and refugees. It will feature an altar on each side of the international border.

The principal celebrant at the mass will be Archbishop Christophe Pierre, known as the Apostolic Nuncio, or Pope Francis’ representative in the United States.

Diocese of Tucson Bishop Gerald Kicanas says the mass will focus on immigration, a major issue for the church. Pope Francis has been outspoken in favor of immigration reform and humane treatment of migrants.