My name is Maria Ayala, and I manage the immigration cases for a Catholic diocese. I have had the pleasure of working with CLINIC’s Religious Immigration Services (RIS) section since 2007 on all our immigration cases. When I started this position, I was new to immigration and learned everything I know through hands-on experience. There is no way I could have successfully managed all the cases without the amazing assistance and guidance provided by CLINIC’s Religious Immigration Services (RIS).

RIS has always been reliable and consistent in any situation we've encountered. For straightforward cases, we can always expect efficient processing of paperwork. For a unique and complex situation, the RIS team gives it the attention needed to achieve the best possible outcome for both the petitioner and the beneficiary. I truly appreciate being able to count on RIS to assist with our cases and their availability to address problems or concerns. I’m impressed by their hard work and dedication over the years, even when facing challenges beyond their control.

One of my proudest moments occurred a few years ago when a priest asked me if I believed this job was my vocation, a calling I was destined for. It caught me off guard because I hadn’t considered it that significant, but he clearly felt that my dedication to my job has been an integral part of the diocese and the religious individuals that CLINIC and I have supported over the years.

As a daughter of immigrant parents, I have firsthand experience of how challenging life in the U.S. can be for immigrants and the struggles involved in navigating the paperwork, requirements, and steps of the process.

It is extremely rewarding to be part of a team that assists priests, sisters, brothers, and other religious workers who come to the United States. Their presence in our communities allows them to continue spreading faith, particularly to immigrant communities that may be struggling and turn to their faith for support during difficult times. I never could have imagined that this job would lead me to where I am now, filling me with such pride. I owe a huge thank you to RIS, the diocese, and the clients I’ve had the pleasure of assisting over the years for trusting me with their immigration cases.