Pivoting with Courage: Faith, Resilience, and Community in a Difficult Season

Mar Imsong

This winter has tested many of our families and congregations. Frigid, icy-snowy New England weather—combined with growing fear around immigration enforcement—has made it difficult for many of our constituents to attend in-person ESOL classes, after-school programs, leadership gatherings, and even Sunday worship. Some families are hesitant to travel. Some ethnic churches are seeing declines in physical gatherings. Many are navigating anxiety alongside practical barriers. And yet, in the midst of these layered challenges, something powerful is emerging—an unexpected testimony of faith, adaptability, and courageous hope. There is more happening beneath the surface than meets the eye. At Massachusetts Baptist Multicultural Ministries (MBMM), we have responded not by retreating, but by pivoting. We are expanding transportation assistance so families can safely access programs when weather permits. We are strengthening virtual platforms for ESOL instruction, pastoral cohorts, and community meetings. We are adapting outreach strategies to ensure that accompaniment continues even when physical presence is limited. Innovation, flexibility, and pastoral sensitivity are guiding this season of ministry. Despite hardship, we are deeply encouraged by the resilience, courage, and perseverance that New Americans consistently demonstrate. Their commitment to faith, family, and community reminds us that hope is not fragile—it is practiced daily. We are also thrilled to see the rise of younger committed volunteers standing alongside us in this season. Four dedicated student interns from University of Massachusetts Lowell have joined our efforts, bringing energy, skill, and compassion to support ESOL classes, youth programming, and administrative coordination. Their presence is a powerful reminder that the next generation is eager to build more just and welcoming communities.

In addition, we are deeply grateful that the Episcopal Churches, under the leaderships of The Rev. Ginger Solaqua Priest-in-Charge, Episcopal Churches in Lowell have become strong partners and supporters of our work with New Americans. Beyond collaboration and encouragement, they have extended tangible care—providing direct financial assistance for rental support, grocery aid, and even immigration-related help for families in urgent need. This kind of ecumenical solidarity embodies faith in action. This is also a spiritually sacred season for many within our community. For Christians, we have entered Lent—a 40-day journey of prayer, fasting, repentance, reflection, and renewed dependence on God. Lent invites believers to slow down, examine the condition of their hearts, and realign their lives with humility and compassion. In a climate marked by political tension, fear, and uncertainty, the Lenten journey calls Christians to resist despair and embody sacrificial love. As we move toward the celebration of Easter on April 5, we hold onto the promise that suffering does not have the final word—resurrection hope does. At the same time, our Muslim brothers and sisters are observing Ramadan, a holy month of fasting, prayer, generosity, and spiritual renewal. Ramadan cultivates discipline, empathy for those who struggle, gratitude for daily provisions, and deeper devotion to God. It strengthens families and builds communal solidarity through shared worship and acts of charity.

Through the ACE Center for New Americans, we are preparing to host a joyful Eid Mubarak celebration on March 21, honoring the completion of Ramadan and celebrating the rich faith traditions within our community. At MBMM, we believe that spirituality and religious practice—when rooted in humility, justice, mercy, and love—enhance our shared humanity. They soften fear. They deepen empathy. They nurture belonging across differences. Even in cold and uncertain days, faith communities carry warmth. Even in moments of anxiety, sacred seasons remind us that renewal is possible. As we pivot programs, expand access, welcome volunteers, and strengthen partnerships, we remain steadfast in our mission: weaving love across cultures, standing with New Americans, and building communities where faith strengthens our common life together. Thank you for standing with us and for your continuous support.