Immigration Resources

If you are concerned about our country’s new direction regarding immigrants you are not alone. The six ELCA Bishops from the synods in the Northwestern states have shared their perspectives in an official statement (see Bishop's message below for a link to the statement), and we are invited to participate in an online discussion about protections for churches, organizations, and individuals in an online forum on Wednesday, February 12 at 6:30 pm. (see message below for the registration link).

Dear Synod leaders and members,

Here are two resources related to our country’s actions towards immigrants, which is currently taking new directions, and how we might engage as ELCA Lutherans. As Lutherans in the United States, we have a long history of service to immigrants and refugees, helping over 750,000 to settle here over the past 85 years.

First, I encourage you to read a Statement on Immigration that comes from the six ELCA bishops in our Region 1 in which we give a scriptural and faith-community perspective of our obligations to treat immigrant newcomers with care and respect.

ELCA Region 1 Bishops Statement on Immigration

Second, rooted in biblical admonitions to accompany the stranger, I invite you to participate in a Region 1 online forum discussing protections for churches, organizations and individuals, and information about our rights and responsibilities as we care for the immigrant people and families whom we serve. The forum will take place on February 12 at 6:30PM.

We will be joined by immigration experts, including leaders from Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon and Lutheran Community Services NW. 

Registration required. It is a free event. Register here.

In Christ,

Bishop Rick Jaech