Hometown Season 7, Episode 7: An Interview with Robert Vivar

In this episode, we speak with Robert Vivar, Migration Missioner for the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego since January 2023. Having lived on both sides of the U.S./Mexico border, Robert understands the factors driving sustained levels of global migration as well as the vulnerabilities of people forced to leave their homes. He also brings to this role a deep faith in God, and long-established connections with organizations serving migrants, asylum seekers, deported veterans, and others in need on both sides of the border. 

As we talk with Robert about his background and work, we learn about the realities of life in the borderlands in recent years, as people fleeing persecution and running for their very lives have encountered immigration policies designed largely to deter them from entering or settling in the U.S. The border is not chaos, affirms Robert, but it is a place where human suffering, efforts to exploit vulnerable people, the cruelty of a broken immigration system, and opportunities for solidarity and service abound.  

As Migration Missioner, Robert helps develop ministries that provide support to migrants on both sides of the border, addressing material needs but also equipping people with the knowledge and skills that will enable them to build sustainable lives. At the same time, Robert works to educate people in the U.S. about the needs and concerns of forced migrants, and invites congregations, groups and individuals across the diocese to become meaningfully involved in these ministries. 

We invite you to tune in to our conversation with Robert Vivar. He offers such a fresh and genuine perspective on questions of enduring importance: Who is our neighbor? How might the notion of ‘courageous love’ help us respond to our neighbors’ deepest needs? Where and how are we called to be the Church in today’s world?  Whether borderlands are part of your current landscape or a distant reality, we think you will find this conversation with Robert as invigorating as we did. Join us in embracing ‘courageous love’ as we welcome our newest neighbors.