Central to many faith traditions is the call to welcome the stranger and care for those in need. From a theological and faith perspective, the Trump administration’s immigration policies raise troubling ethical concerns that challenge core religious values of compassion, love and welcome.
Sweeping measures, framed as deporting illegal migrant criminals, are effectively criminalizing and terrorizing ALL migrant communities in the U.S., regardless of legal status.
Border security policies that set aside humanitarian considerations fail to recognize the plight of individuals fleeing violence and persecution. Such actions undermine our moral obligation to offer refuge and support to those seeking safety and a better life.
Economically, immigrants contribute to our communities and serve vital roles in various industries, driving growth and innovation. Many have been in this country for years. They are most often seen as gifts to our communities, not threats. By forcibly removing them and restricting entry for others, we diminish the richness and diversity they bring, which is counter to the belief that all people are created in the image of God and deserve dignity and opportunity.
Global Ministries condemns these actions, which disregard the fundamental dignity and rights of migrants, many of whom are families in need of our concern and care.
Additionally, the divisive rhetoric often accompanying these policies is antithetical to the teachings of love and unity found in many faiths, leading to increased intolerance and hatred of migrants in the U.S. We must advocate for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to immigration that reflects the gospel, values all lives as sacred and promotes justice and peace.
Instead of fostering division, we should focus on building bridges and advocating for comprehensive immigration reform that embodies compassion, justice, and the inherent worth of every person.
In Deuteronomy 10:18-19, we are reminded of God’s love for the foreigner, who is given food and clothing, and we are called to do the same: “And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.”
God calls us to welcome the stranger. We must commit to build a future where compassion and justice prevail regardless of passport status.
We reaffirm our call on individuals, pastors and local churches to take immediate action:
Pray: Uphold the protection and well-being of migrants in your prayers, and seeking bold leadership from communities and policymakers.
Volunteer: Connect with local organizations such as Church World Service or the Immigration Law and Justice Network to assist nearby affiliates.
Support Projects: Apply for Mustard Seed Migration Grants of $2,000 to aid migrants in your community. Learn more and apply here.
Learn: Join this Feb. 10 webinar organized by Church and Society and others to learn about the UM response to immigration justice. Learn more and register here.
Advocate: Contact elected officials to express your support for migrant rights and sign up for Church World Service Action Alerts for advocacy opportunities.
Donate: Contribute to the Global Migration Advance (#3022144) to support programs that aids migrants and refugees. Give here.
Roland Fernandes is the general secretary of Global Ministries, UMCOR, and Higher Education and Ministry of The United Methodist Church.
This content was originally published by the General Board of Global Ministries; republished with permission by ResourceUMC on January 31, 2025.