What Welcome Means This Election Year

As the United Church of Christ, we pride ourselves in providing an extravagant welcome for all because we believe all people, regardless of background or immigration status, are made in the image of God. Many UCC congregations have become Immigrant Welcoming or Sanctuary Congregations over the last several years, volunteering to accompany undocumented people or asylum seekers and help resettle refugees. Unfortunately, this work is becoming more difficult under the current anti-immigrant sentiments that have grown within both parties and has become a hot button issue among the candidates. 

The global trend of mass migration will only increase. According to the Global Peace Index, there are more conflicts and political upheaval throughout the world now than any time since World War II. Climate change is already driving forced migration and is expected to uproot 134 million people in the next thirty years due to natural disasters, drought, scorching temperatures, and rising sea waters. Government leaders in Europe and the U.S. are responding with short term policy “solutions”, that utilize enforcement to push migrants back, resulting in thousands of deaths in the desert or at sea. 

Meanwhile millions of undocumented people within the U.S. still don’t have a pathway to citizenship after years of living, working, and raising their children in the U.S. Although the Biden administration advanced the Parole in Place Keep Families Together program, which would allow spouses of citizens to adjust status, over a dozen states are now suing to try and halt the program. 

The constant barrage of anti-immigrant rhetoric from politicians, including, references to migrants fleeing for their lives as an “invasion,” has resulted in Republicans calling for mass deportation and Democrats, out of political expediency, leaning into a harsh bi-partisan legislative proposal, “The Border Act of 2024,” that will increase border militarization and limit people’s access to claim asylum. These are not viable solutions to the long-term issues we are facing. We cannot deport away the root causes of migration. The Border Act fails to create a pathway to citizenship for undocumented people who have already been living here and contributing to our communities. 

Through data driven analysis, experts have revealed how the influx of immigrants has contributed to our country’s current economic successes. Yet, the sentiment of many voters has turned against new arriving immigrants and the majority of Christian Protestants (57%) think that migration at the border is a crisis, a much higher percentage than religiously unaffiliated (27%). Yet nearly half of the world’s migrants are Christian. As The United  Church of Christ, we must work to show others who share the Christian faith how to see Christ in the face of migrants. As Matthew 25:35 reminds us, “.. for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me…” 

UCC Congregations have already done so by accompanying migrants in need, providing sanctuary from deportation or accompanying asylum seekers facing anti-LGBTQIA+ persecution, and assisting refugees  the resettlement process. We are called to welcome new arrivals at the border and to pass concrete policy proposals that are real solutions including The Climate Displaced Persons Act, The Destination Reception and Assistance Act, The No Ban Act, and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented people. We can also take action right now around the importance of funding services for unaccompanied children and refugees. 

No matter which administration takes office in January, this sacred work must continue. But as people of faith, we can bring this same hospitality and witness to the polls this November and elect political leaders that support a better future for our migrant, refugee, and immigrant neighbors and friends. We cannot turn our backs on those fleeing violence, persecution and natural disaster, but instead, we must continue to live out our faith and take action to make a difference.  

A Prayer for Immigrant Justice 

God of liberation and justice.  
We have grown weary of living through uncertain times. 
Tired of seeing those who seek power step on the downtrodden. 
We lift up all those who are fleeing violence, persecution, discrimination and disaster. 
We pray for safety in their journeys through dangerous waters and perilous deserts. 
We ask that all families have a path to stay together, 
And that all people might find safe refuge. 
We pray for strength to journey on in this struggle for justice 
Help us build bridges instead of walls. 
Let our arms be open, 
Let our congregations be conduits, 
And may we always welcome those in need, 
No matter who they are, or where they are on life’s journey. 
Amen. 

Take Action 

The Interfaith Immigration Coalition is launching a petition for people of faith to show their support for welcoming migrants seeking safety, asylum seekers and undocumented people. Please sign and share.