For 39 years, Sister Carol Monzon, OP has lived her Dominican vocation with compassion and dedication. A registered nurse and a Dominican Sister of Mission San Jose since 1990, she has served in ministries across Arizona and California, including St. Martin’s Care Center, St. Joseph Convent, St. Elizabeth in Oakland, St. Callistus, Santa Teresita, Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, and San Gabriel Mission.Most recently, Sister Carol brought her gifts to the KINO Border Initiative, a bi national ministry accompanying migrants and deportees in Nogales, Sonora. Guided by the motto “Respect for Human Dignity,” KINO provides meals, medical care, legal assistance, social services, and educational support to families navigating the challenges of migration.Sister Carol served in the kitchen, preparing and sharing meals with migrants who had arrived with little more than hope. She witnessed a vibrant community of support:

•             A clinic staffed by a doctor and nurse

•             Lawyers ensuring migrants are not exploited

•             A social worker and special education teacher

•             Skill building programs for women in baking, embroidery, and jewelry making

•             Construction opportunities for men

•             Volunteers ranging from college graduates to Jesuit high school students

•             Sunday Eucharist grounding the community in faith

Reflecting on her time at the border, Sister Carol describes the experience as “very life giving.” She encourages others to consider participating in this ministry of presence, accompaniment, and hope. “This ministry gave me life. I encourage others to experience it for themselves.”

— Sister Carol Monzon, OP

Her witness reminds us that the Gospel call to welcome the stranger is alive at the border — and that every act of compassion affirms the dignity of those seeking safety and a new beginning.

https://www.kinoborderinitiative.org/