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October 20, 2021ARDMORE – Following Archbishop Coakley’s Episcopal motto, “Put out into the deep,” more than 500 people from as far away as Colorado and Tennessee came to Saint Mary Catholic Church in Ardmore in September to participate in a weekend with staff from the Honduran Consulate General in Dallas.
The consulate sponsored the weekend in which Honduran documents and Honduran passports were processed by 14 staff members. Saint Mary’s pastor Father Kevin Ratterman and parishioners gladly provided the location.
Staff members and participants described Father Ratterman and Deacon Juan Jimenez as “special angels” for their welcome and willingness to host the event.
Consul Joachim Ritter said about Father Ratterman and Deacon Jimenez, “I wish I had this kind of cooperation at every location when we offer a program like this. They are special people. We had choice of Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, but happily chose Ardmore, Oklahoma. I have been in my position for two years and I wish I could have a Father Ratterman and Deacon Juan every place we go.”
The event provided a central location for families to meet with officials about the legal process.
“We processed many appreciative people. Most of them got the word to come to Ardmore from social media for the program, which is a free service of the Honduran Consulate.”
Ritter explained, “These are all very hard-working people who are going through the legal process. They pay their federal, state, social security and Medicare taxes, but can’t vote or collect any benefits of a U.S. citizen. By getting these documents from the consulate, it helps them continue the process with banks, identification and travel.”
Deacon Jimenez said three years ago, Saint Mary hosted a similar program for the Mexican Consulate.
“Both programs have been very successful, and we want to serve as an outreach for all people,” he said. “We have no idea what kind of long-term effect this will have when we open our doors. We are fortunate we have such a great facility.”
Charles Albert is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
