Mexican Priests and Migrant Ministry in the Midwest, 1953–1961

Abstract:Mexico's Catholic hierarchy partnered with U.S. bishops in sending Mexican priests to minister to braceros (short-term Mexican contract workers) who relocated during summers to the Midwest, especially Ohio and Michigan, to work in agriculture. Based on recently-uncovered letters, this essay concentrates on the experience of these bracero-misioneros. In ministering to Spanish-speaking migrants from both Mexico and the U.S., the priests usually approved of those from Mexico while questioning the religiosity of U.S.-based Mexican migrants. The priests' seasonal visits over nine summers (1953–1961) strengthened migrant ministry and Spanish-speaking apostolates as diocesan clergy and laypeople grew familiar with the migrants' needs.