The Bishop, and other Catholic leaders from the community spoke to the 200 persons who had gathered in the lower hall of St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, to learn of their rights and the resources available to them.
Addressing the attendees in Spanish, Bishop O’Connell said, “I have come here tonight, not to give a speech, but simply to be present with you as your bishop. I want to offer you my love and support at a time when I know you are worried and afraid. The Lord Jesus is with you, with us, saying, ‘Do not be afraid.’
“Put your faith and hope and trust in Jesus,” he continued. “I pray each day for you, and I place you in the arms of our loving Mother Mary, asking for her protection for you and your families. May God watch over you and bless you.”