Enrique's Journey Lesson Plan

How does the statue of Jesus, with his arms outstretched, impact migrants on their journey as they arrive in Veracruz?

The statue of Jesus is what greets migrants upon their entrance to Veracruz. Many migrants on the train credit religious faith for their progress. They pray atop the train, making promises to God in exchange for a safe journey. Many carry bibles—which police always take, but often return to them. With all the sins he has committed, Enrique does not think he has a right to ask God for help.

This statue of Jesus signifies when things take a turn for the better for migrants. At that point, they have survived the worst of the journey: the residents of the...