IMMIGRATION

Wondering how to support Arizona congregations?

• Disagreements about the law within congregations make it difficult to worship together. Some Christians in Arizona feel the law is much-needed and will help with drug cartels and kidnapping . Other Christians think the law asks them to define church by nationality and status, which they don't find compatible with the gospel. Few congregations have the tools to deal well with disagreements fueled by the daily news.
• Depending on interpretation, the law makes it almost criminal to be found in the presence of an undocumented immigrant. Many Christians have jobs in the service sector. How do congregations, and members of congregations, witness to and serve undocumented communities?
• Christians have different opinions about how to relate to the state and how to respond to laws they don't agree with. How prophetic can a congregation be?
• Although the law is not yet in effect, more people are being asked for documents. Some people have gone into hiding.
• What response might congregations have to the children left behind if parents are deported?

Ways you and your congregation might show support to your sisters and brothers in Arizona:

• Send a letter from your congregation with many signatures (Sample below)
• Photograph your congregation-holding signs with messages
• Say a prayer during your worship service and send a signed copy
• Burn a (long-burning) candle during your worship service and send it.
• Visit! Learn what it means to be living in Arizona. Be a physical presence.

• Send postcards to your legislator, and then tell the congregation.
• Promise funds if people from the congregations face jail, detention, or being sent overseas.
• Undertake local work to support immigrants,
• Take a learning tour on the border.

Sample letter:

To the churches in Arizona, you are loved by God, our Creator:

We ask God for grace and peace for you in these days of difficulty.

We are concerned for your welfare for you are our sisters and brothers in Jesus Christ. We had heard of your suffering resulting from measures taken to increase border security. These have been brought into focus with the passage of new laws by the Arizona state legislature.

We recognize that there may be disagreement in your congregation about these laws. We pray that you will be able dialog about this and to agree and disagree in love. We have hope that you will continue to "[b]elieve in and rely on the solidarity of the Body of Christ and its commitment to peace and justice…"

We are concerned for the beloved members of your community who now fear a routine traffic stop or a stroll in a city park. We are saddened to know that others may worry about offering the hospitality of a ride in a car to church or a meal to a sister or a brother who is a neighbor.

We ask that the God of Love and Justice give you strength for the days ahead, wisdom to discern how to care for all in your community, patience in teaching those of us farther away, and understanding for those seeking unity when perspectives differ.

We give thanks for your faithfulness. The grace, joy, and peace for Jesus Christ be with you now and forever.

We send you our love as fellow sisters and brothers in the faith,