“‘When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God."
- Leviticus 19:33-34 [NIV]
- Leviticus 19:33-34 [NIV]
As followers of Jesus, we are called to live in alignment with God's way. With Scripture as our guide, it is clear that the people of God are to treat foreigners and immigrants with dignity and respect. Furthermore, if and where immigrant communities face oppression and injustice, the people of God join our voices with the psalmist who prays " Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute." (Psalm 82:3, ESV).
It is right, therefore, that we seek meaningful ways to defend the cause of those who are targets of mistreatment and unjust enforcement of laws. We stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers and commit to pray and act, living our our biblical faith in these chaotic times.
We are also reminded that, in our frustration and anger with apparent injustice, the lack of due process, the lack of gentleness and compassion in the name of law, we are likewise called to Christ-like humility who called on his people to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44, ESV). And we seek to approach the challenges of our times in alignment with fruits of the Spirit, especially that of love, peace, gentleness, and self-control.
It is right, therefore, that we seek meaningful ways to defend the cause of those who are targets of mistreatment and unjust enforcement of laws. We stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers and commit to pray and act, living our our biblical faith in these chaotic times.
We are also reminded that, in our frustration and anger with apparent injustice, the lack of due process, the lack of gentleness and compassion in the name of law, we are likewise called to Christ-like humility who called on his people to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44, ESV). And we seek to approach the challenges of our times in alignment with fruits of the Spirit, especially that of love, peace, gentleness, and self-control.
Ways to Pray
- Pray for protection against unjust acts.
- Pray for change in policy around immigration enforcement.
- Pray for families living in fear of ICE.
- Pray for families financially impact by ICE activity.
- Pray for families experiencing separation due to deportation (especially for the children).
- Pray for change and repentance in heart of those who would use power for evil.
- Pray for safety and the wellbeing of all people involved.
Ways to Act
- Volunteer with West Los Respuesta Rapida (WLRR), a grassroots community organization which provides compassionate care to families impacted by immigration raids in Los Angeles. Services include grocery distribution and outreach.
- Check out the WLRR links which include ways to donate or support specific families impacted.
- Donate groceries and household goods to be distributed to families in need. We are partnering with community organizers to collect resources for distribution. Items may be brought to the church on Sundays from 8AM - 1PM. For a list of accepted items, please download the PDF linked below. Please check the list before purchasing or bringing supplies as the list is subject to change.