It is deeply discouraging to hear loud calls for harsh immigration restrictions, especially when so many people are in need of safety and cannot access it. The church, as a community where people come together to reflect God’s love, has a unique role in reshaping the narrative about immigrants.
Throughout our denomination’s history, the General Assembly has consistently supported the rights of immigrants, most recently declaring the PC(USA) a Sanctuary and Accompaniment Church, encouraging congregations, mid-councils, and members to support immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and their children. Presbyterians and PCUSA congregations demonstrate this commitment every day through hands-on ministries that provide food, shelter, clothing, mentoring of newcomers, assistance with school enrollment, employment and more. Presbyterians stand in solidarity with immigrant groups that speak out for their rights at local, state and national levels. Presbyterians have stood in the streets as witnesses to wrongful arrests, speaking out against indiscriminate detention and encouraging our government to endorse policies that recognize the dignity of each human being, regardless of their place of birth.
People of faith should actively challenge messages that demonize immigrants in our communities and congregations. Our faith teaches us to welcome the stranger, as Leviticus 19:33-34 commands us not to mistreat the stranger, reminding us that we were once strangers. Jesus’s teachings also urge us to care for others as we care for ourselves.
As voters and people of faith, we must remind politicians regardless of political party that immigrants are people to love and not fear. With talks of new bipartisan immigration legislation in the planning phase and the new Congressional session coming in January, we need to make our voices heard.