Pope Appoints Migrant Who Crossed US Border in Car Trunk as Bishop

In a move that resonates deeply within immigrant communities and beyond, Pope Francis has appointed Evelio Menjívar-Ayala as the new bishop of the Diocese of West Virginia. This appointment is particularly significant as Menjívar-Ayala's journey to this esteemed position is one of resilience and overcoming immense adversity.

His story is a powerful testament to the pursuit of a better life. In the 1990s, Menjívar-Ayala, then part of a family fleeing civil war in El Salvador, made a perilous third attempt to reach the United States by hiding in the trunk of a car. This act of desperation underscores the profound challenges faced by those seeking refuge and opportunity.

Menjívar-Ayala's appointment makes history, as he becomes the first Salvadoran bishop in the United States. He previously served as a vicar in Washington, and now he will oversee the entire state of West Virginia. At his first press conference, he described the appointment as a "joy and a cause for humility," reflecting a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility. This appointment highlights the Catholic Church's evolving embrace of diverse leadership and its recognition of the contributions of immigrants to American society.

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joy and a cause for humility