Giovana Oaxaca shares a blog on ELCA.org observing World Refugee Day, as we celebrate the Lutheran heritage of hospitality and advocacy for refugees. The ELCA continues to lead with its AMMPARO strategy, welcoming congregations nationwide and advocating for fair and generous immigration policies. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Johnson-Reed Act, reminding us of the enduring importance of solidarity.
Read MoreGlobal Refuge, formerly known as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, continues its longstanding mission of providing sanctuary and support to refugees and immigrants. In 2023, through the dedication of partners and Lutheran communities, Global Refuge successfully reunited over 17,000 children with their families or placed them in loving foster homes, welcomed 11,200+ refugees from diverse global regions, and assisted 11,700+ individuals seeking safety from Central America and beyond. View their full annual report here and their synod letter here.
Read MoreIn addition to addressing the critical issue of HCR2060, the Arizona Faith Network's latest newsletter features a rich lineup of events and educational opportunities. Upcoming sessions include a webinar on American Christian Nationalism, a Resiliency Career/Job Fair, and a series exploring the impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery. There's also a focus on community support with initiatives like the Heat Relief and Resilience efforts, and the MOMS Tour Baby Shower, designed to support maternal health.
Read MoreThe ELCA's AMMPARO strategy, originally focused on the Americas, is expanding globally to address the increased needs of migrants worldwide. AMMPARO Global aims to enhance collaboration with international partners to provide comprehensive support for migrants. Recent visits to Serbian and Bosnian partners highlight the strategy's commitment to articulation and network building, crucial for addressing global migration challenges effectively. Read more at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreEpiscopal Migration Ministries (EMM) and AMMPARO, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) migrant ministry, have partnered to enhance training and support for asylum-seeker sponsors through the Neighbor to Neighbor program. This partnership aims to bolster community sponsorship efforts by offering practical support and fostering connections for asylum-seekers in areas such as housing, education, and employment. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreWe are deeply troubled by the actions of the Texas attorney general's office against Annunciation House, a volunteer-run faith-based organization that has been a pillar of welcome and hospitality in El Paso for more than 40 years. Annunciation House has been singled out by the attorney general's office over potential legal violations for the social services it provides to immigrants in Texas. We recognize Annunciation House's exemplary way of faith—by way of humanitarian works in close partnership with the federal government and other nonprofits in the region—that ensures migrants are treated with dignity and respect.
Read MoreFebruary's Advocacy Connections from the ELCA Advocacy office outlines critical updates on social justice initiatives, including the expansion of the Child Tax Credit, potential funding shortfalls for the WIC program, and legislative efforts to protect human rights defenders. The update also highlights ongoing advocacy for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and concerns over proposed changes to immigration law, emphasizing the ELCA's commitment to social justice and humanitarian aid.
Read MoreGlobal Refuge emerges from the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, embodying a renewed commitment to global compassion and support for displaced individuals. Maintaining its core mission and Lutheran heritage, Global Refuge stands as a beacon of hope and sanctuary, embracing all regardless of origin or faith. Learn more at globalrefuge.org.
Read MoreRead about the stark realities of migrant experiences in "Witnessing Cruelty and Compassion on a Dominican Highway." This powerful blog post by Stephen Deal from ELCA's AMMPARO shares a vivid account of a journey in the Dominican Republic, where the author encounters the inhumane treatment of Haitian migrants. Amidst this harsh reality, the story also highlights a moment of profound compassion from a local woman, offering a glimmer of hope and humanity.
Read MoreJoin the Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation for 5-day retreat focused on immigration, October 22-27, 2023. The goal of the retreat is to give participants a chance to dig deeper in their own spirituality as they engage in the reality of immigration and its impact on others. The retreat is open to lay and clergy leaders of all denominations. View more info in this post, view flyers in PDF or in this image, and view FAQs as a Word doc or in this post.
Read MoreWe share an article from the Fountain Hills Times Independent featuring the churches of the Northeast Valley Consortium (Ascension, Christ the Lord, Living Water, New Covenant, and New Journey) and Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest and other partners. They helped pack over 200 welcome bags for refugees in Phoenix, offering essential items and a beacon of hope to those arriving from strife-torn regions.
Read MoreRaed AbuJries delves deep into his immigration experience, emphasizing the transformative power of kindness. As he navigated the complexities of American society, the diverse responses from individuals shaped his perspective on acceptance, prejudice, and the real-world implications of Matthew 25:35. Through his journey, Raed underscores the value of "inviting in" strangers and the profound ripple effect it can have on both individuals and communities. Read about his immigration experience on the AMMPARO blog.
Read MoreIn this article in Living Lutheran, discover how the ELCA and its partners are navigating the complexities of global migration, providing support and a warm welcome to thousands of asylum seekers. Learn about the efforts and initiatives of various ELCA congregations and the real, human impact of their work.
Read MoreFacing rising anti-immigration sentiments, it's crucial to support advocacy for humane immigration laws and policies. Unearth the challenges, misconceptions, and the role of faith in fostering tolerance in this post from ELCA’s AMMPARO blog, With Anti-Immigration Sentiments Rising, More Action is Needed.
Read MoreNo matter where one’s views fall on the spectrum of thoughts about immigration issues, members of our Lutheran faith family should be extraordinarily disturbed by the massive displacement of individuals and families across the globe.
Read MoreIn honor of World Refugee Day on June 20, the ELCA and LIRS advocacy networks invite their members to a national day of advocacy, intended to build urgency for robust support for refugees, immigrants, asylum seekers. We urge all to learn more about refugee admissions in the United States, join LIRS's 125 Watch campaign, accompany migrants through AMMPARO, and advocate through prayer and action for our neighbors in need.
Read MoreLutheran Immigration and Refugee Service shares their annual report in this PDF. A crucial example of LIRS's expansion is the work taking place within the Grand Canyon Synod, where, through a partnership with Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, asylum seekers and humanitarian parolees are receiving protection-centered and trauma-informed case management services through LIRS’s Welcome Center initiative.
Read MoreWe welcome Sister Lika Macias as our special guest at the 2023 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly.
She is the Director of La Casa de la Misericordia y de Todas las Naciones in Nogales, Mexico.
Read MoreA Binational Young Adult Gathering is taking place Saturday, 3/18/2023, 10am-4pm. More information and registration @ donorbox.org/events/419139. Meet at 10am at Carl’s Jr. (105 5th St., Douglas AZ 85607), to cross to Agua Prieta, Sonora.
Come learn about service, justice and faith on the U.S./Mexico borderlands with other young adults from the U.S. and Mexico.
Read MoreLenny stands next to the bank of the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo. He can see the U.S. from where he stands in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, but he can’t get there. A former soldier in the Venezuelan armed forces, he decided to leave his home country looking for greater opportunities.
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