FAQ s : On Becoming an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation
|
|
- Gertrude Stewart
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 FAQ s : On Becoming an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation Why are we considering becoming an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation? Becoming an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation is a journey to deepen and widen our involvement in working for immigrant justice. As the negative rhetoric around immigration escalates, it is important that faith communities give voice to their values. In both Hebrew Scripture and the gospels, we encounter God who is the champion of the stranger and the foreigner and who calls us to advocate for a fair and just world for all. In the last 12 months, immigration enforcement in our area has shifted from targeting those with a criminal records to detaining those who have no record, who are employed and complying with check-in regulations, and who have family members who are US citizens. As negative stereotyping of immigrants increases, becoming an immigrant welcoming church provides a critical alternative witness rooted in biblical values that are at the heart of our commitment as a congregation to express the love and welcome of Christ. At the 31 st General Synod of the United Church of Christ in July 2017, delegates from congregations across the country voted to adopt a resolution to become an Immigrant Welcoming Denomination and to call for member churches to become active Immigrant Welcoming Congregations. This proposed covenant is our response to that call. Does this mean that we support illegal immigration as a congregation? Becoming an immigrant welcoming congregation is not a political position on immigration. It is a faith response to the dehumanization of people in our community who are in need of safety and compassion as they face changing policies in immigration enforcement. As a church, we affirm the dignity and worth of every person and we are called to treat each person as a beloved child of God. 1
2 There may be many reasons why a person is undocumented, and as individuals, we may have many different opinions about immigration policy, but what matters to us as people of faith are not those reasons or opinions but the desperate needs that these families are now confronting. Children have been separated from their parents because of detention or deportation. Many families are plunged into poverty because the undocumented parent is no longer permitted to work. And there is little hope of reunification. The backlog in applications is so long that the waiting periods stretch from years to decades. We read in the gospel of Matthew, Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you? And the he will answer them, Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. These words remind us that God asks us to see Christ in each person regardless of their background or economic circumstances or race or religion or immigration status, and to be Christ for them. Becoming an immigrant welcoming congregation allows us to make it clear to those who are caught in this immigration crisis that they are not alone. What is the difference between an immigrant and a refugee? Functionally there is not much distinction between immigrants and refugees given the current level of conflict around the globe, but there is a crucial legal distinction between the two. An immigrant is someone who chooses to settle in another country and applies for legal residency, which is a lengthy process. Many who come to the US as undocumented immigrants are fleeing dangerous circumstances and cannot safely remain in their country of origin for the years required to establish legal residency in the US. In some cases, past US policy played a role in creating the unsafe conditions in their country of origin. Refugees are those seeking asylum because they are unable or unwilling to return to their home country because they fear serious harm. Refugees must be able to prove that they are escaping violence or persecution in their country of 2
3 origin. Many undocumented immigrants are unable to meet the level of proof or the specified conditions that would qualify them for asylum status. Without proper documentation, an immigrant can be deported. Those who are classified as refugees cannot be returned to their country of origin, and fall under protections from the 1951 Refugee Convention. Regardless of causes, immigration can be traumatic, separating people from their native homes, communities, and cultures. What does it mean to be an immigrant welcoming congregation? In many ways, we already are an immigrant welcoming congregation. Our Open and Affirming covenant affirms the dignity and worth of every person and calls us to reach out to those who experience rejection. The adoption of this Immigrant Welcoming Covenant makes it clear that our welcome extends to those who are experiencing rejection because they are undocumented. Since 2007 we have been offering educational opportunities, guest preachers, library resources, legislative alerts and prayer concerns that focus on immigration. In recent months, we have partnered with faculty at Framingham State University on a border-crossing project and we have invited immigrants to share their stories with us. One of our members was a delegate to the 31 st General Synod of the UCC that adopted the resolution making the United Church of Christ an Immigrant Welcoming denomination. Many in our church community have endorsed the Natick is United statement and its commitment to make Natick a community where we value differences and everyone belongs. Over the summer, members of our congregation met with the Reverend John Allen from the Mass Conference Immigrant and Refugee Task Force and connected with Framingham Companeras, an interfaith group working in MetroWest with undocumented individuals facing detention or deportation. Several of our members have been trained to accompany undocumented persons to court and to ICE appointments in Burlington. We hosted an Accompaniment Training as well as an Active Bystander Training, and participated in immigration related workshops at the Mass Conference Super Saturday event in November. A number of choir members joined in a benefit concert in Framingham Singing in Solidarity with our Immigrant Neighbors. 3
4 Our Outreach team made an emergency grant to the Neighbors Fund to create a revolving loan that can assist families with legal, translation and other support. Our special Christmas offering raised another $1700 to support the fund. In addition, our Advent Giving Project collected gift cards to make the holiday season a little brighter for families who are facing unemployment and separation because one of their family members is undocumented. The engagement of so many in our congregation with these activities demonstrates our concern to reach out to those caught in the current crisis. Are we considering offering sanctuary in our building to undocumented individuals? Because of our commitment to our preschool and the Family Promise MetroWest, we are not in a position to provide physical sanctuary in our building, nor at this time is physical sanctuary an approach that many undocumented individuals are willing to risk. But there are many other actions that we can take to ensure that undocumented neighbors in MetroWest are welcomed and protected in our communities. What next steps might we take? o Finding ways to lift up personal stories of immigrants in our area. o Supporting state and local legislation to create Immigrant-Welcoming and/or Sanctuary communities. o Participating in the work of Framingham Companeras and continuing support for the Neighbors Fund to provide legal and other assistance to those with family members facing deportation and/or detention. o Participating in Citizenship Days and Know Your Rights education. o Continuing to accompany our immigrant neighbors facing deportation to hearings or other encounters with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). o Praying for immigrants. 4
5 o Praying for our current and future leaders to take positions of discernment, compassion and morality with respect to immigrants and the immigrant community. o Listening, sharing, learning, and praying with members of our faith community to deepen our understanding and support for immigrants in the wider community. o Offering logistical support to congregations in our area that are providing physical sanctuary. o Confirming local policies (e.g. town, police, school, hospital) regarding undocumented individuals and advocating for necessary changes. Why don t undocumented people apply to enter this country legally? Times have changed from when many of our ancestors entered this country. Today many rules specify who may enter and remain in the country legally. There is also a rigorous process for obtaining documentation to enter the United States as a resident, including applying for immigrant visas and permanent resident/green-card status. Many immigrant ancestors who arrived between 1790 and 1924 would not have been allowed in under the current policy. Generally, permission to enter and stay in the country as a documented immigrant is limited to people who are highly trained in a skill that is in short supply here and have been offered a job by a U.S. employer, are escaping political persecution, are joining close family already here or are winners of the green-card lottery. Many of those escaping from danger come to the US as refugees hoping to qualify for asylum, but it is difficult to prove persecution in order to qualify for refugee status. For those fleeing dangerous situations, there is not the luxury of waiting for a process that will take many years to complete. 5
6 Here is some civil rights information for faith communities working with undocumented immigrants about activities that help to support immigrant rights but steer clear of potential criminal liability: o Adopting a policy of nondiscrimination at your place of worship and of welcoming and helping persons in need, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, race, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation, etc. o Adopting a policy that respects privacy by not asking members of the congregation, or members of the public who interact with the congregation, about their immigration status, and adhering to a policy of not recording any information about any individual s immigration status. o Providing shelter, food, or other services to a broad set of people, including citizens and noncitizens, regardless of immigration status. o Speaking out on behalf of immigrants rights, and expressing support for keeping families together and reforming the immigration laws to make it possible for undocumented immigrants to adjust to a lawful status. Supporting or working with local and state governmental authorities to adopt legislation and regulations that protect immigrants and refugees. o Making a public statement that all are welcome at your place of worship, regardless of immigration status, and that your faith group will lend assistance to all those in need. o Speaking out against injustice. o Referring undocumented immigrants (or all persons your congregation is serving) to legal assistance resources, including pro bono immigration legal help. Holding legal information sessions, hosting legal clinics, and making referrals for social services. o Exercising the right to refuse to consent to law enforcement officers coming into or searching non-public areas of the church, and demanding to see a lawful warrant signed by a federal judge. There may be minimal risk associated with the following activities: o Providing housing to individuals without regard to their immigration 6
7 status, or only to immigrants whose deportation proceedings are still underway, or who have submitted an application to immigration authorities, and whose location is, therefore, known to the authorities. o Providing rides for ordinary errands to individuals with a personal connection to the congregation (e.g., congregation members, friends, family) without regard to their immigration status. Generally, giving a ride to a friend or congregation member who happens to be an undocumented immigrant to regular everyday activities, to help him or her run errands, attend a doctor s appointment, to see an immigration attorney, or attend church, is unlikely to lead to criminal liability. On the other hand, it is illegal to transport an immigrant to a location or activity with the intent to conceal his or her presence or otherwise further his or her remaining in the United States. Why don t we take more time to review this issue? With the escalation in immigration enforcement and the repeal of protection for those who were brought to the US as children, time is running out for many families with undocumented loved ones. They need our concern and compassion and witness now. Many immigrants face raids, deportation and family separation. The world is in the midst of a long-term refugee crisis with thousands of God s people displaced or on the move, seeking safety, security, freedom and opportunity. Current U.S. immigration law is very complex, and often arbitrarily enforced. Limited legal options for people to flee poverty or war have resulted in more than eleven million people living and working in the United States who are considered undocumented or without legal status. The political stalemate over this crisis has led to polarization and name-calling and a growing climate of intolerance and suspicion and fear. We already see the tragic human cost of current immigration policy on families in our area. 7
8 Here are some resources to learn more about the current crisis for our undocumented neighbors and their families: Books available from our church library: The Devil s Highway by Luis Alberto Urrea Enrique s Journey: The Story of a Boy s Dangerous Odyssey to Reunite with his Mother by Sonia Nazario Welcoming the Stranger: Justice Truth and Compassion in the Immigration Debate by Matthew Sorrens and Jenny Hwang Yang DVD s De Nadie, directed by Tin Dirdamal Crossing Arizona, directed by Joseph Matthew Dying to Get In, directed by Brett Tolley The Gatekeeper, directed by John Carlos Frey Under the Same Moon, directed by Patricia Riggen On-Line Videos: Ted talk: bate_about_immigration#t Sojourners: Websites: The United Church of Christ has many resources that offer our distinct UCC perspective. Borderlinks Interfaith Immigration Coalition Humane Borders National Immigration Law Center Church World Service 8
SANCTUARY CONGREGATIONS AND HARBORING FAQ THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE AND DOES NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR CONSULTATION WITH AN ATTORNEY.
SANCTUARY CONGREGATIONS AND HARBORING FAQ NOTE: THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE AND DOES NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR CONSULTATION WITH AN ATTORNEY. What does it mean for a faith group to provide sanctuary to immigrants?
More informationSanctuary Resolution. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:31)
Sanctuary Resolution When an immigrant resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the immigrant. The immigrant who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the
More informationSession 2 Immigrants and the Bible
Session 2 Immigrants and the Bible Session 2 focuses on the controversial issue of immigration and what the Bible says about the subject. Preparing for the Session Review Adam Hamilton s blog post and
More informationSanctuary Southside Presbyterian Church, August 2014 page 1
Sanctuary 2014 You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust. - Psalm 91:1-2 What is Sanctuary?
More informationNew Sanctuary Movement
New Sanctuary Movement UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST ASSOCIATION OF CONGREGATIONS ADVOCACY AND WITNESS PROGRAMS Congregational Advocacy and Witness (617) 948-4607 socialjustice@uua.org Washington Office for Advocacy
More informationInfo Session. World Relief Overview Asylees, Asylum Seekers and Immigrants Detention Center Overview Volunteer programs Next steps
Info Session World Relief Overview Asylees, Asylum Seekers and Immigrants Detention Center Overview Volunteer programs Next steps Mission Every refugee and vulnerable immigrant welcomed by community, rooted
More informationNEIGHBOR to NEIGHBOR VISITS 2014 Visit your Representatives in their home offices
NEIGHBOR to NEIGHBOR VISITS 2014 Visit your Representatives in their home offices What are Neighbor to Neighbor Visits? When Members of Congress know that their constituents care about immigrants rights,
More informationBible Study Guide. Be Not Afraid. People on the Move New Neighbors Much to Give. LIRS.org/be-not-afraid
Be Not Afraid Bible Study Guide People on the Move New Neighbors Much to Give LIRS.org/be-not-afraid lntroduction and Contents Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) has heard from synods, districts
More informationFrequently Asked Questions about Immigration and Gloria Dei s Involvement in the Sanctuary Movement
Frequently Asked Questions about Immigration and Gloria Dei s Involvement in the Sanctuary Movement What is the Sanctuary Movement? The Sanctuary Movement is a growing movement of faith and immigrant communities
More informationPope Francis: World Day of Peace Message, 2018
Pope Francis: World Day of Peace Message, 2018 Pope Francis opens his 2018 World Day of Peace Message (released in November, 2017) with a prayer for peace for all people, and especially for who those who
More informationThe New and Continuing Immigration Challenges In a "Welcome the Stranger" Vincentian Year
The New and Continuing Immigration Challenges In a "Welcome the Stranger" Vincentian Year A Voice of the Poor Webinar July 20, 2017 Juan Pereira, Voice of the Poor South Central Region Leader Dan Torrington,
More informationVIGILS AT ELIZABETH DETENTION CENTER A HANDBOOK
VIGILS AT ELIZABETH DETENTION CENTER A HANDBOOK Vigils at the Elizabeth Detention Center Since 2005, on the third Sunday of the month, at 4:00 pm, members of NJ Synod Lutheran congregations gather outside
More informationBecoming an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation. The Journey is Made by Walking
BECOMING AN IMMIGRANT WELCOMING CONGREGATION UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST Becoming an Immigrant Welcoming Congregation The Journey is Made by Walking The United Church of Christ has a long history of working
More informationDRAFT FOR INTERNAL REVIEW ONLY - 1
Sanctuary Movement Proposal for Temple Sinai, Washington, DC For Board Meeting, February 15, 2017 Prepared by Rabbi Jonathan Roos for the informal Sanctuary Movement Task Force Background: The Sanctuary
More informationThe Salvation Army Positional Statement REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS
The Salvation Army Positional Statement REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS STATEMENT OF POSITION The Salvation Army is gravely concerned for the needs of the millions of people who are refugees and asylum seekers.
More informationAsylum Seekers and the church
TRANSFORMING COMMUNITIES TOGETHER A Church Urban Fund Joint Venture in the Black Country Asylum Seekers and the church How can the church be a responsible, active and loving support to asylum seekers and
More informationAnd Catholic Social Teaching
Published Byfocus Volume 44, Number 1 March 2016 In This Issue Terms to 2Know; Who Are Refugees? How Does the Refugee Resettlement Process Work? What 3Is Church Teaching About Refugees? Policy Recommendations
More informationA social message on Immigration
A social message on In November of 1998 the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, upon recommendation of the Division for Church in Society, adopted this social message as a resource
More informationBroken Families, Broken Souls: The Impact of the U.S. Immigration System on Children and Families
Broken Families, Broken Souls: The Impact of the U.S. Immigration System on Children and Families Thursday, January 18, 2018 Rev. HéctorJ. Hernández Marcial Nancy Córdova Angela Whitenhill, LCSW WHAT IS
More informationKnow and Exercise Your Rights! Steps to Prepare for the Potential Impact of the Trump Administration on Immigrant and Refugee Communities
Know and Exercise Your Rights! Steps to Prepare for the Potential Impact of the Trump Administration on Immigrant and Refugee Communities Who is OneAmerica? Advancing immigrant, civil, and human rights
More informationCatholics and Immigration. Move from Charity to Justice
Catholics and Immigration Move from Charity to Justice Agenda Introduction Catholic Teachings on Immigration An Exercise: As a Catholic, what can you do next? Sources: Conscience Formation Based on Catholic
More information10:14. #HowWillTheyHear 10 MINUTES 14 DAYS
10:14 10 MINUTES 14 DAYS #HowWillTheyHear How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone
More informationShare the Journey. Your guide to organising a walk around the world
More people than ever before are fleeing war, persecution, natural disaster and poverty. It s time for the world to step up... Share the Journey Your guide to organising a walk around the world Pope Francis
More informationNew Sanctuary Movement Tool Kit
New Sanctuary Movement Tool Kit What is the New Sanctuary Movement? In the book of Numbers in the Hebrew Scriptures, God gives the people of Israel instructions to follow if they are persecuted for a crime
More informationWELCOMING REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS
WELCOMING REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS WHO ARE REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS? There are plenty of headlines in the newspapers - plenty of opinions expressed on the street - but who, in fact, are refugees
More informationBackground on the crisis and why the church must respond
Refugee Sunday: PASTOR TALKING POINTS AND PLANNING GUIDE Lebanon The global refugee crisis is the worst humanitarian disaster in the world today. Roughly 12 million Syrians have been forced from their
More informationSupporting Immigrant Clients in Challenging Times G A B R I E L L E L ESSARD N AT I O N A L I M M I GRAT I O N L AW C E N T E R
Supporting Immigrant Clients in Challenging Times G A B R I E L L E L ESSARD N AT I O N A L I M M I GRAT I O N L AW C E N T E R L ESSARD@NILC.ORG Who We Are National Immigration Law Center (NILC) Our mission
More informationBe Equipped. Be Not Afraid. Be Not Afraid Worship and Education Tools. LIRS.org/be-not-afraid
Be Not Afraid Be Equipped Be Not Afraid Worship and Education Tools LIRS.org/be-not-afraid Introduction and Contents lntroduction and Contents Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) and has heard
More informationContents. 10 Preaching Points.. 1. Sermon Outline Bible Principles..5. Guest Speakers..8. Why the Local Church 9. Additional Resources..
Pastor Packet Contents 10 Preaching Points.. 1 Sermon Outline.......3 7 Bible Principles..5 Guest Speakers..8 Why the Local Church 9 Additional Resources..10 Dear Pastors, Nearly 1,000 forcibly displaced
More informationappeal: A written request to a higher court to modify or reverse the judgment of lower level court.
alien: A person who is not a citizen of the country in which he or she lives. A legal alien is someone who lives in a foreign country with the approval of that country. An undocumented, or illegal, alien
More informationTOOLKIT. RESPONDING to REFUGEES AND. DISPLACED PERSONS in EUROPE. FOR CHURCHES and INDIVIDUALS
TOOLKIT FOR CHURCHES and INDIVIDUALS RESPONDING to REFUGEES AND DISPLACED PERSONS in EUROPE YOUR COMPASSION for and interest in assisting refugee families and individuals fleeing war and persecution are
More informationThank you for your warm welcome and this invitation to speak to you this morning.
Seeking the Human Face of Immigration Reform Most Reverend José H. Gomez Archbishop of Los Angeles Town Hall Los Angeles January 14, 2013 Greetings, my friends! Thank you for your warm welcome and this
More informationSouthern Region Take Home Session
Slide 1 Southern Region Take Home Session Slide 1: Welcome and introductions Time: 12:45 12:47 (2 mins) Led by: Regional staff, Annette Marquis Welcome to the Southern Regional Take Home Session! What
More informationCopyright 2008 Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University 63. I Was a Stranger: Jesus and the Undocumented Immigrant
Copyright 2008 Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University 63 I Was a Stranger: Jesus and the Undocumented Immigrant B y A l b e r t L. R e y e s From a Kingdom perspective, what does it mean that
More informationWhy Christians Care About Human Rights
Why Christians Care About Human Rights Rev. Elenie Poulos National Director, UnitingJustice Australia University of the Third Age Human Rights Forum St. Ives Uniting Church 20 November 2008 One day, years
More informationMISSIONARY OBLATES JPIC RESOURCE IMMIGRATION REFORM IS A MATTER OF FAITH
MISSIONARY OBLATES JPIC RESOURCE IMMIGRATION REFORM IS A MATTER OF FAITH Spring 2010. Compiled for Missionary Oblates JPIC Office by George K. Ngolwe. 391 Michigan Av, NE, Washington D.C 20017, www.omiusajpic.org.
More informationWelcoming the Stranger: A Biblical Conversation on Immigration
: A Biblical Conversation on Immigration Matthew Soerens U.S. Director of Church Mobilization, World Relief National Coordinator, Evangelical Immigration Table Some Troubling Statistics According to LifeWay
More informationWelcoming Immigrants Toolkit
Welcoming Immigrants Toolkit Sanctuary-related resources and guidance for Virginia faith communities Compiled by the Virginia Interfaith Center For Public Policy www.virginiainterfaithcenter.org Tools
More informationChurch Service Packet
Church Service Packet Contents Bulletin Announcements.... 1 Guest Speakers........3 Syrian Fact Sheet..4 Litany....5 Affirmations.... 6 Suggested Scripture Readings. 7 Take Action 8 Additional Resources..9
More informationSlide 1: Welcome and introductions Time:!2:45 12:47 (2 mins) Led by: Regional staff
Slide 1 Central East Region Take Home Session Slide 1: Welcome and introductions Time:!2:45 12:47 (2 mins) Led by: Regional staff Welcome to the Central East Regional Take Home Session! What a week! Introduce
More informationSanctuary Movement 2014: Stopping Deportations
Sanctuary Movement 2014: Stopping Deportations You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I
More informationwashington pilgrimage Loving Thy Neighbor Immigration Reform and Communities of Faith Sam Fulwood III September 2009
washington pilgrimage Loving Thy Neighbor Immigration Reform and Communities of Faith Sam Fulwood III September 2009 www.americanprogress.org Loving Thy Neighbor Immigration Reform and Communities of Faith
More informationCHURCH BETWEEN BORDERS Welcoming the Stranger. Christian Reformed Church of North America Office of Social Justice & Office of Race Relations
CHURCH BETWEEN BORDERS Welcoming the Stranger Christian Reformed Church of North America Office of Social Justice & Office of Race Relations 1 Church Between Borders Facilitator guide overview The Church
More informationRaising awareness about the issues affecting refugees around the world. This year s theme is. Restoring Hope.
Raising awareness about the issues affecting refugees around the world. This year s theme is Restoring Hope. Facts As of December 2012, the number of people displaced by persecution and conflict was estimated
More informationAsylum Seekers and Refugees: Scriptural, Theological and Ethical Approaches
Asylum Seekers and Refugees: Scriptural, Theological and Ethical Approaches Pre-Synod and Synod Reflection Studies Session Two What have you done to us, bringing us out of Egypt?: Coping with change Parish
More informationChurch Service Packet
Church Service Packet Contents Bulletin Announcements.... 1 Syrian Fact Sheet..3 Litany....4 Affirmations.... 5 Suggested Scripture Readings.6 Take Action 7 Additional Resources....8 Dear Church Leaders,
More informationYou and Your Parish Are Cordially Invited to Participate in a Global Solidarity Project.
Please forward to: Pastors, Associate Pastors, Deacons, Liturgy Teams, Pro-Life Committees, Social Ministry/Social Concerns Committees, Religious Education and Youth Ministry Leaders, and other Parish
More informationWORLD REFUGEE DAY TOOLKIT. Acts of Celebration and Remembrance
WORLD REFUGEE DAY TOOLKIT Acts of Celebration and Remembrance Welcoming Refugees for more than 60 Years In 2000, the United Nations marked June 20 as World Refugee Day. Since then, this day has been an
More informationImmigration in the Age of Trump
Before the law sits a gatekeeper. To this gatekeeper comes a man from the country who asks to gain entry into the law. But the gatekeeper says that he cannot grant him entry at the moment. The man thinks
More informationJesuit Migrant Service
INTERNATIONAL PROJECT PROPOSAL PROJECT 1400 Jesuit Migrant Service Compassion for Refugees Haiti The stranger has not lodged in the street; I have opened my doors to the traveler. Job 31:32 We are a Catholic
More informationNATIONAL REFUGEE MONTH ENGAGE EQUIP MOBILIZE June Church Service Packet
NATIONAL REFUGEE MONTH ENGAGE EQUIP MOBILIZE June 2016 Church Service Packet Contents Bulletin Announcements.... 1 Guest Speakers........4 Syrian Fact Sheet..5 Litany....6 Affirmations.... 7 Suggested
More informationDOWNLOAD OR READ : WELCOMING THE STRANGER JUSTICE COMPASSION TRUTH IN THE IMMIGRATION DEBATE PDF EBOOK EPUB MOBI
DOWNLOAD OR READ : WELCOMING THE STRANGER JUSTICE COMPASSION TRUTH IN THE IMMIGRATION DEBATE PDF EBOOK EPUB MOBI Page 1 Page 2 welcoming the stranger justice compassion truth in the immigration debate
More informationKnow Your Rights: Important Information for Immigrant-Service Agencies
Know Your Rights: Important Information for Immigrant-Service Agencies Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition 105 Chauncy Street, #901 Boston, MA 02111 Marcony Almeida 617-350-5480 x205
More informationPresidents and pundits tout the
A publication of Mennonite Central Committee U.S. Volume XLVII, No. 3 Wall to Wall, Part 2 THE U.S.-MEXICO BORDER WALL Presidents and pundits tout the U.S.-Mexico border wall as a national security tool,
More informationJustice in Immigration A Pronouncement approved by General Synod XIII (1981)
Justice in Immigration A Pronouncement approved by General Synod XIII (1981) Summary The pronouncement calls attention to global and domestic implications of United States immigration policy (both governmental
More informationNEWSLETTER. 26 August. From the Principal... Love One Another As I Have Loved You. Migrant and Refugee Sunday
Love One Another As I Have Loved You NEWSLETTER 14 26 August Migrant and Refugee Sunday Mary Most Holy, you, together with St. Joseph and the Child Jesus, experienced the suffering of exile. You were forced
More informationBecoming Immigrant- Welcoming Congregations:
Becoming Immigrant- Welcoming Congregations: A Study of Resolution GA-1723 June 22, 2017 Rev. Dean Bucalos Rev. Héctor Hernandez 2016 Héctor Hernandez and Malanga Art Studio. All rights reserved. Resolution
More informationJune. The Advocates for Human Rights Association.
The Justice for Immigrants: A Journey of Hope is the Catholic Campaign for Immigration Reform launched in June 2005 by the US. Catholic Conference of Bishops that seeks a comprehensive immigration reform
More informationACTION FOR REFUGEES IN LEWISHAM & ST MARGARET S CHURCH. A COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITY a talk at the Parish Eucharist 22 May 2016
INTRODUCTION ACTION FOR REFUGEES IN LEWISHAM & ST MARGARET S CHURCH A COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITY a talk at the Parish Eucharist 22 May 2016 Hello, my name is Renae Mann and I am here today to inspire you.
More informationStatement. Refugees and Asylum Seekers. Australian Catholic Bishops Conference
2002 Statement Refugees and Asylum Seekers Australian Catholic Bishops Conference 26 March 2002 The many and grave challenges which the flow of refugees and asylum seekers presents to the nations, including
More informationSPEAK OUT FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE PORTLAND Sunday, June 28, 2015
CSW Alert! SPEAK OUT FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE PORTLAND Sunday, June 28, 2015 Actions of Immediate Witness Debate and Vote on Five Proposed Actions of Immediate Witness (AIWs) General Session VI 1:30 p.m. - 4:30
More informationWorld Refugee Day 2017
Toolkit Table of Contents A Prayer for Migrants and Refugees 2 Sample Prayer Intentions 2 Commonly Asked Questions about Refugees 3 Sample Talking Points 5 Letter to the Editor Tips 6 Sample Social Media
More informationSome ideas for praying with and for those who have come to Britain to seek sanctuary.
AIM Some ideas for praying with and for those who have come to Britain to seek sanctuary. INTRODUCTION The term seekers of sanctuary is being used to replace the words previously used for asylum seekers
More informationBOOKLETS FROM THE CHRISTIAN COUNCIL OF SWEDEN - #22B. This Is What We Want. The Churches and Migration Issues
BOOKLETS FROM THE CHRISTIAN COUNCIL OF SWEDEN - #22B This Is What We Want The Churches and Migration Issues 1 This Is What We Want The Churches and Migration Issues BOOKLETS FROM THE CHRISTIAN COUNCIL
More informationA Church for Everyone...
A Church for Everyone... Helping Churches welcome people from other cultures EMBRACE NI Building a Welcoming Community 02 What s Inside 03 Introducing EMBRACE 04 People on the Move 05 What does the Bible
More informationStanding Together: How Disciples Can Support DACA & TPS in a Critical Time
Standing Together: How Disciples Can Support DACA & TPS in a Critical Time August 30, 2017 Webinar, 4-5 p.m. Eastern Time Through your computer, go to: join.me/jbarnes2333 If you prefer, dial in for audio
More informationREFUGEE CLAIMANTS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
REFUGEE CLAIMANTS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA // FAQs October 2018 bcrefugeehub.ca refugeehub@issbc.org @bcrefugeehub 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1 // Making A Refugee Claim... 3 1. Who can make a claim for refugee
More informationMEMORIALS AND RESOLUTIONS ACTED ON BY THE NINTH TRIENNIAL CONVENTION. Table of Contents
MEMORIALS AND RESOLUTIONS ACTED ON BY THE NINTH TRIENNIAL CONVENTION Table of Contents Memorial 1 Awareness and Prevention of Human Trafficking 2 Memorial 2 Bullying, Harassment and Related Violence 3
More informationTHE DOVE. From the Pastor THIS MONTH. Council Meeting July 7. Child Care Meeting July 17, 7:00 pm. Dear Christ Ascension,
THE DOVE From the Pastor In the summer of 2019, the ELCA will meet in Churchwide Assembly to discuss, deliberate, and vote on our 13 th Social Statement. This one on Women and Justice. In anticipation
More informationThe law does not require imprisonment. The law favors release.
TABLE OF CONTENTS p. 2 Background pp. 3 4 Frequently Asked Questions p. 5 Discussion Leader Instructions pp. 6 10 Images and Quotes for Discussion p. 11 Invitation to Action Families Held Captive, a film
More informationExecutive Orders on Immigration and the Impact in Your Community. February 22, 2017
Executive Orders on Immigration and the Impact in Your Community February 22, 2017 Presenters Dr. Don McCrabb U.S. Catholic Mission Association Matt Wilch Migration and Refugee Services, USCCB Miguel Naranjo
More informationThe State of the Refugee Highway 2015
The State of the Refugee Highway 2015 Dzaleka refugee camp is in Malawi (Africa). The CIA World Factbook ranks the people of Malawi as the 4 th poorest in the world. The average person makes $1,000/year
More informationRefugee Highway Partnership World Evangelical Alliance Missions Commission
Refugee Highway Partnership World Evangelical Alliance Missions Commission Refugee Ministry Best Practices Introduction The Code of Best Practices for Christian Refugee Ministry is designed as a benchmark
More informationWhere are we on Immigration: Trump, DACA, TPS, and More. January 26, 2018 UCSB Vivek Mittal, Esq.
Where are we on Immigration: Trump, DACA, TPS, and More January 26, 2018 UCSB Vivek Mittal, Esq. We work for the University of California and we provide free immigration legal services to undocumented
More informationImmigration Policy. Introduction. Definitions
Immigration Policy Spokesperson: Denise Roche MP Updated: 10-July-2017 Introduction Aotearoa New Zealand has a long history of migration since the first arrival of East Polynesians. We have little influence
More informationRe: Proposed Legislation That Would Expand Prolonged and Indefinite Immigration Detention
Hon. Elton Gallegly Chairman House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration Policy and Enforcement Committee on the Judiciary Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Hon. Zoe Lofgren Ranking Member
More informationINTERNAL CONFLICT. has driven more than 1 million people from their homes, over half of them children.2
IN THE MARGINS South Sudan: Children in Need of Food and Protection.9 MILLION people in South Sudan about onethird of the country s population are seriously short of food. INTERNAL CONFLICT has driven
More informationPresbyterian World Mission
Presbyterian World Mission South Sudan Education and Peacebuilding Project (SSEPP) 3nd Quarter 2016 Summary Report Report Outline: I. Brief South Sudan Context Update II. EDUCATION Update 1. Capacity Building
More informationIllinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. Addressing the Challenges of a House Divided: Understanding the Immigrant and Refugee Debate
Addressing the Challenges of a House Divided: Understanding the Immigrant and Refugee Debate Luvia Quinones Health Policy Director lquinones@icirr.org Agenda I. Overview of Illinois Immigrant population
More informationPROJECT PROPOSAL In the past year, ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and
PROJECT PROPOSAL In the past year, ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) has seized control of large portions of Syria and has infiltrated Iraqi territories with astonishing force, extreme brutality,
More informationUNHCR calls for urgent action as hundreds feared lost in Mediterranean boat sinking, 20 April Source:
A Christian Response to the Humanitarian Crisis in the Mediterranean By Thomas Albinson Ambassador for Refugees, Displaced and Stateless People World Evangelical Alliance Some wandered in desert wastes,
More informationWelcoming Christ in the Migrant A Conversation about Immigration
Welcoming Christ in the Migrant A Conversation about Immigration 1 1. Recent Law & Policies Immigration is part of the heritage of the US, but the laws and policies restricting immigration are much more
More informationBest Practices for Christian Ministry among Forcibly Displaced People
Best Practices for Christian Ministry among Forcibly Displaced People International Association for Refugees November 2015 This document draws heavily from the document Best Practices of Refugee Ministry
More informationThe REAL ID Act and NY State Driver s License Policies A Position Statement by Queers for Economic Justice
The REAL ID Act and NY State Driver s License Policies A Position Statement by Queers for Economic Justice Changes in the Driver s License and state ID card policies have disproportionately impacted many
More informationRefugee Ministry 101
Refugee Ministry 101 How Diomass Congregations Can Respond to the Current and On-going Refugee Crisis in the World The Right Rev. Gayle Harris Laura Walta, Director of Global Mission at Diomass The Rev.
More informationWorld Refugee Day 2018 Toolkit. - June 20,
World Refugee Day 2018 Toolkit - June 20, 2018 - Table of Contents A Moment of Grace: A Prayer for Refugees 2 Sample Prayer Intentions 2 Commonly Asked Questions about Refugees 3 Sample Talking Points
More informationThis is National Migration Week January 7 13, 2018
January 11, 2018 This is National Migration Week January 7 13, 2018 For nearly a half century, the Catholic Church in the United States has celebrated National Migration Week, which is an opportunity for
More informationPlanning a Prayer Vigil for Meaningful and Humane Comprehensive Reform
Immigration through the Lens of Faith Interfaith Worker Justice A prayer Planning a Prayer Vigil for Meaningful and Humane Comprehensive Reform vigil can give powerful expression to the prophetic voice
More informationCLAIMING OUR VOICES. Building a multi-faith, multi-racial, statewide movement for independent political power in Minnesota in 2018.
CLAIMING OUR VOICES Building a multi-faith, multi-racial, statewide movement for independent political power in Minnesota in 2018. DECEMBER 2018 1 ISAIAH is a multi-racial, democratic, congregation-based
More informationRemember, You Too Were Once Strangers
Remember, You Too Were Once Strangers A SOLIDARITY VIGIL FOR REFUGEES MATERIALS Audio-visual equipment and internet access Baskets large enough to collect letters Bible, open to Matthew 2:13 14, 16 2 4
More informationPlanning for Immigration
89 Planning for Immigration B y D a n i e l G. G r o o d y, C. S. C. Unfortunately, few theologians address immigration, and scholars in migration studies almost never mention theology. By building a bridge
More informationAdvisory to Nonprofit Organizations and Social Service Providers Regarding Immigration Enforcement
Advisory to Nonprofit Organizations and Social Service Providers Regarding Immigration Enforcement (Derived from an Advisory drafted by Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, 04-03-2017) Basics: Many nonprofits,
More informationA Word from the Director. Standing for the Vulnerable: Welcome Team
A Word from the Director "The holidays have changed for me since I met my first refugee in 2007. The more I have built friendships with and served those fleeing war and persecution, the more Thanksgiving
More informationTHURSDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK OF EASTER (for symposium on immigration, May 7, 2015)
THURSDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK OF EASTER (for symposium on immigration, May 7, 2015) In this year that commemorates the 50 th anniversary of the closing of the Second Vatican Council, I m going to begin this
More informationHOST WELCOMING REFUGEES EVENTS
Page 1 HOST WELCOMING REFUGEES EVENTS We encourage people across the country to host Welcoming Refugees events around World Refugee Day (June 20) to raise awareness about the power of refugee resettlement
More informationWE COMMIT OURSELVES: Civility and Non-Violence
October 2018 Volume 4, Issue 5 WE COMMIT OURSELVES: A social justice newsletter of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Third Order St. Francis Sr. Cecilia Marie Morton, Sr. Donna Wilhelm, Sr. Dorothy Pagosa, Jennifer
More informationGallogly Family Foundation Grant Application
Grant Application Organization Information Catholic Charities of Central Texas Name of organization Legal name, if different 1625 Rutherford Lane Austin, TX 78754 74-2928450 Address City, State, Zip Employer
More informationRESPONDING TO REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS: TWENTY ACTION POINTS
RESPONDING TO REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS: TWENTY ACTION POINTS For centuries, people on the move have received the assistance and special pastoral attention of the Catholic Church. Today, facing the largest
More informationThe Rights of Non-Citizens
The Rights of Non-Citizens Introduction Who is a Non-Citizen? In the human rights arena the most common definition for a non-citizen is: any individual who is not a national of a State in which he or she
More informationFlee country of origin to a relatively safe neighboring country or refugee camp
The U.S. Refugee Act of 1980 adopted the United Nations definition of a refugee as a person with a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of their race, religion, nationality, political opinion,
More information