In light of the federal and state immigration policy actions, we find ourselves asking really hard questions about what it means for churches to love our immigrant neighbors at such a time as this. How do we navigate being part of a movement called to welcome the stranger, feed the hungry, and love our neighbors as we love ourselves?
With the new executive orders and the new legislation passed in Tennessee, there are some important things to keep before us. We first of all must recognize that this affects all of us in the Tennessee Western Kentucky Conference of the United Methodist Church, for we are one body with many members. Our members are diverse in multiple ways from age, ethnicity, education, health, gender, etc. As the body of Christ, we recognize one another as beloved children of God, created in the image of God.
It is important that we, by our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness support those of our members that are directly affected by this shift in attitude toward our immigrant communities. We are called to be present alongside our neighbors, with compassion for anyone who is feeling unwelcome and afraid. Our voices are needed to advocate for more just practices. It is important that we stay as informed as possible to know how to prepare, how to prepare others, and how to respond if ICE is at our church doors or in our neighborhoods.
Three Action Steps Congregations Can Take Right Now
Fast & Pray
God consistently responds in surprising ways when the church fasts and prays during times of spiritual need.
In our state, federal immigration laws are being observed. And yet, our faith encourages us to welcome immigrants as beloved children of God.
Organize a season of prayer and fasting in your congregation specifically around our faithful witness in this challenging time. Consider using this Immigrant Creed as part of your worship service.
Organize
When using our voices, let’s raise them through actions of advocacy by reaching out to our legislators privately and as a collective group. Our Social Principle guides us toward those actions, and the General Board of Church and Society has urged us to speak out against mass deportations.
Contact your legislators and advocate for our United Methodist social principles. Do you have attorneys in your congregation are willing to offer pro-bono services for processing domestic documents related to powers of attorney? Let us know here.
Educate
Read what our United Methodist Social Principles say about immigration.
Consider using this study: Immigration and the Bible
Connect with trusted partners where you can learn more. In addition, we encourage you to know your community context and the local resources that are available.
Where can we get the information?
Use the following resources to learn more information about the United Methodist Church and immigration. If you have specific questions related to your local church context, please reach out to your district superintendent. This is a very fluid situation; our district superintendents are equipped with the most current information.
TNJFON
Tennessee Justice for Our Neighborsprovides compassionate immigration legal services to our neighbors seeking humanitarian relief.
TIRRC
Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition is a statewide, immigrant and refugee-led 501(c)(3) organization.
General Board of Church & Society
Advocates for just and compassionate immigration policies that uphold the dignity and rights of all migrants.
Contact Your Local Legislator
Find your local legislator here and a letter template available for download.
Things to Consider:
When raising our voices let us consider those for whom we are advocating. Share conversations with people directly. We do not want to cause unintentional harm. We are called to advocate, and we are also called to respect the law of the land in which we live and work. Be wise and be aware. If you are unsure about the impact of your plans to stand with a community, seek counsel from someone who is in relationship with people in that community
Is it permissible to welcome people into the body of Christ? Yes! We welcome all people into the love and grave of Christ that is embodied in the church.
Is it permissible to educate and share helpful, accurate information? Yes! We are people who seek to learn, act intentionally, and gracefully in all that we do.
Is it permissible to love all? Yes! With God, all things are possible. We love one another as Christ has loved us, and always with the help of the Spirit.
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