We are grateful for Bishop Amy’s statement on February 26, regarding ongoing work in The Episcopal Church and in our diocese to minister with those detained in immigration detention centers and support of all the vulnerable in our communities. In conjunction with the bishop’s message, we acknowledge reports about potential mass detention centers being proposed in our region. Concerningly, facilities in Kansas and Missouri already have ICE contracts and are being used to house detained immigrants. As of February 5, 670 people are being detained across six facilities in our region. Of those 670 people, 513 individuals are classified among the non-criminal population (Detention Reports).
As followers of Christ called to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8), we are compelled both to name what is happening and to act with compassion, grounded faith, and respect for all God’s children. Our hearts remain hopeful as we draw strength from these ancient truths:
“Remember those in prison as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated as though you yourselves were suffering.” (Hebrews 13:3)
“For I was a stranger and you welcomed me…” (Matthew 25:3)
Many have been wondering, “What can I do? What is the Church doing?” We invite you to discern how you may be called to support those among our communities who live in fear, are oppressed, and on the margins:
- Prayer and Reflection: Join the service of lament hosted by our diocese during Holy Week. Invite your friends or families to hold prayers in worship and in small groups lifting up those affected by immigration enforcement and families in fear of separation. More information to come.
- Support the Emergency Migration Ministry: donate to the emergency fund that supports migration ministry, announced by Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe.
- Community Engagement: encourage local conversations within our diocese about how we can faithfully respond to detention facilities and facilities proposed in our region in order to uphold the worth and safety of every human being.
- Reach out to Abide in Love to volunteer or donate funds to support their work with detainees. Abide in Love currently has affiliates in Phelps County, Missouri; Ste. Genevieve, Missouri; Saint Louis, Missouri; Greene Country, Missouri; and Tulsa, Oklahoma. A new affiliate is underway at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, Lee’s Summit. You do not need to reside near an affiliate to volunteer or donate. Volunteers may serve as pen pals with individuals who have been detained in order to provide support and a sense of connection to their families and resources they may need.
- Education and Resources: equip parishes with fact-based materials about immigrant rights and local services that support immigrant communities (e.g., legal aid, community outreach).
- Immigration detention quick facts and immigration court quick facts.
- National Immigration Law Center Resources
- Ecumenical Collaboration: partner with other faith communities and civic leaders who seek equitable, compassionate approaches to immigration to embody our shared Christian witness.
- Contact your members of U.S. Congress and Missouri Legislature.
In all our engagement, let us uphold measured, evidence-based dialogue, honoring both the complexity of immigration law and the sacredness of every person made in God’s image. Our voice is neither reactionary nor indifferent but anchored in Christ’s reconciling love and the middle way that holds justice and mercy together (James 2:13).
May the God of all peace strengthen us to respond with courage, clarity, and compassion.
This message was submitted by the Community of Deacons in The Diocese of West Missouri.
