Amid aggressive immigration enforcement, faith leaders nationwide are uniting to protect their migrant congregants.
Key Takeaways
- Over 35 faith leaders gathered in Newark to oppose impending mass deportations.
- Cardinal Tobin emphasized the importance of caring for vulnerable immigrants.
- Churches are seen as sacred spaces offering sanctuary to those in need.
- Fear and anxiety permeate immigrant communities due to enforcement actions.
United Front in Newark
In Newark, over 35 religious leaders from diverse faiths convened to oppose anticipated mass deportations under the incoming presidential administration. This event was organized by Faith in New Jersey, Faith in New York, and the Archdiocese of Newark. The leaders, representing Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim communities, voiced their concerns about the dire threat deportations pose to immigrant families. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin underscored the Catholic tradition of advocating for the vulnerable, including immigrants, during the gathering.
Four key actions were delineated: encounter, accompaniment, prayer, and advocacy. Immigrants articulated their apprehensions about leaving their homes, fearing potential arrests, and emphasized the protection of “sensitive locations” like churches and schools. Reverend Mark J. Seitz called for resistance against any policy changes dismantling these protections, reinforcing the notion during an interfaith service that included prayers and a Jewish tradition tribute.
— Salvazion (@salvazion_) August 8, 2024
Concerns Over Enforcement
As Trump’s administration intensifies its stance on immigration, faith leaders across the U.S. express their concerns. Clergy in Portland and Philadelphia emphasize their churches’ role as sanctuaries. Rev. W.J. Mark Knutson of Portland announced plans to offer sanctuary to undocumented migrants at Augustana Lutheran Church, stressing theological opposition to unjust laws. Rev. Robin Hynicka in Philadelphia continues the church’s commitment to sanctuary while advocating for broader policy reforms.
“Theologically, we’ll stand our ground against the government – an unjust law is no law at all. These are sacred spaces.” – Rev. W.J. Mark Knutson
Despite new policies allowing arrests in sacred locations, clergy remain dedicated to supporting undocumented migrants. In Queens, Rev. Joseph Dutan described the pervasive fear among his congregation about attending Mass due to potential risks. In Denver, Church leaders highlight the significant anxiety faced by undocumented parishioners and their families, prompting churches to offer protection and counsel.
The History of the West Bank: A Detailed Chronicle of Judea and Samaria from 1000 BC to Jordanian Control Post-British Mandate
The history of the West Bank, historically known as Judea and Samaria, is deeply intertwined with the ancient civilizations of the Levant. Around 1000… pic.twitter.com/aIZUYevvWs
— Niels Groeneveld (@nigroeneveld) May 22, 2024
Faith Over Policies
Imam Omar Niass of Masjid Ansaru-Deen in the Bronx offers shelter to migrants, placing faith above shifting policy landscapes. Catholic Bishop Mark Seitz criticizes policies ending protection for sensitive locations, thereby intensifying communal fear. Faith leaders emphasize the necessity of safeguarding these communities and challenge the administration’s approach. They advocate not only for immediate sanctuary but also for longstanding moral responsibilities to migrants.
“We’re deeply concerned about the potential impact of mass deportation on children and families. Within the Catholic tradition and other faith expressions represented here today, we’re able to see the humanity in everyone. We care for the most vulnerable — children, the poor, the orphans, and yes, the immigrants.” – Cardinal Tobin
Pastor Maria Elena Montalvo in Los Angeles echoes these concerns, describing the intense anxiety in her community while emphasizing her church’s role as a sanctuary. Rev. Canon Jaime Edwards-Acton works to arm migrants with knowledge of their rights, reinforcing the traditional role of religious institutions as sanctuaries.
Sources
1. Faith Leaders Unite to Oppose Mass Deportations, Vow to Protect Immigrant Families
2. Trump won’t ban immigration arrests at churches. Now clergy are weighing how to resist
