Sister Norma Pimentel, a prominent figure in the fight for immigrant rights in South Texas, will be making the journey to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. This devotion comes a decade after the Pope publicly acknowledged her contributions during a 2015 ABC News event.

A Decade of Advocacy

For over ten years, Sister Norma Pimentel has been a key advocate for immigrants as the executive director of Catholic Charities in the Rio Grande Valley. Her efforts have centered around addressing the needs of migrant families, particularly during times of crisis.

Reflections on Her Work

In a recent interview with ABC News, Pimentel reflected on her experiences during the 2014 surge of families, primarily from El Salvador, who arrived in dire conditions. She emphasized the community’s swift response at Sacred Heart Parish Hall, highlighting the crucial role of support during challenging times.

“I visited Rome and wrote him letters and he sent a video message,” Sister Pimentel shared with ABC News. “After that, I was invited to the Vatican a couple of times to speak and I met the Holy Father as well.”

The Impact of Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ unwavering support for immigrant rights has resonated deeply with Pimentel and her community. His acknowledgment not only lent credibility to her cause but also fostered a wider conversation about humanitarian responsibilities towards migrants.