Faith leaders are forming an unexpected alliance to protect migrant congregations amid growing immigration enforcement policies.
Key Takeaways
- Religious leaders are rallying against the Trump administration’s immigration control measures in Newark.
- Faith leaders underscore the role of churches as sanctuaries, advocating for protection of sensitive locations.
- Interfaith services highlight the unified support for immigrant communities under threat.
- Theological opposition to laws allowing arrests in sacred spaces is emphasized by clergy.
United Against Immigration Enforcement
Over 35 religious leaders gathered in Newark to strategize against potential mass deportations expected under the Trump administration. Faith in New Jersey and Faith in New York, collaborating with the Archdiocese of Newark, organized this event, emphasizing the impact on immigrant families at risk of separation. Leaders of Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim faiths reaffirmed their commitment to shielding their congregants from aggressive immigration policies.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin highlighted the Catholic obligation to care for vulnerable communities, including migrants. Four primary actions were proposed: encounter, accompaniment, prayer, and advocacy. This initiative aimed at countering policy changes that could endanger church-goers and unauthorized migrants living in fear of raids at traditionally protected locations like churches and schools.
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Guarding Sacred Spaces
Bishop Mark J. Seitz strongly opposed altering policies protecting sensitive locations, such as churches, schools, and hospitals from immigration raids. An interfaith service held during the gathering included prayers and Jewish tributes, noting that religious traditions have long offered shelter in turbulent times. Many clergy members vowed to continue providing support and sanctuary to undocumented individuals despite new regulations permitting enforcement actions in places once considered safe havens.
“We must show our love and respect for our immigrant brothers and sisters. That is what we are modeling today for our communities across the region and country. We hope they are encouraged to care for immigrants during these challenging times.” – Cardinal Tobin
Church leaders, like Rev. W.J. Mark Knutson in Portland, committed to sanctuary provisions, supporting their stance with theological arguments against unjust government regulations. Clergy voiced their commitment to protecting undocumented parishioners, with many expressing their fears of attending regular worship services, a feeling mirrored by congregants across the country.
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Reaffirming Faithful Resistance
Faith leaders from varying denominations continue their unified front against policies perceived as threats to their congregants’ safety and dignity. Imam Omar Niass and others embody the belief that divine will surpasses any legislative decision, providing sanctuary regardless of policy changes. Cardinal Tobin’s statements reinforce a narrative of maintaining humanity’s innate worth, caring for the marginalized, and fostering an environment of safety amidst uncertainty.
“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
As discussions unfold, clergy members across the nation persist in their advocacy, ensuring that faith communities remain bastions of support for those in need. Regardless of policy changes, religious leaders exemplify unwavering commitment to protecting their congregants and continuing centuries-old traditions of sanctuary and solace.
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
