Preparing to Serve Migrant Communities
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde:
“I ask you to have mercy, Mr. President, on those in our communities whose children fear that their parents will be taken away and to help those fleeing war zones and persecution in their own lands.”
This appeal came from the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, who made a direct plea to President Trump at a post-inauguration prayer service. The bishop expressed her commitment to continue praying for Trump, even after he responded by calling her a "radical hardline Trump hater." The Reverend clarified that she does not view Trump as an enemy and believes they can disagree respectfully.
Rev. Dr. K. Karpen, Senior Pastor at Saint Paul and St. Andrew United Methodist Church in New York City, appeared on CBS News, expressing gratitude for the bishop’s remarks, noting their significance in reflecting the concerns of many Christians and people of other faiths. "We’re doing work with our immigrant communities and families," he said, highlighting the personal connections his church has developed with individuals seeking safety and refuge. "I was glad to hear her speak up and ask for mercy. It was a very gentle yet important approach."
Rev. Karpen’s church, a Justice-Seeking Congregation, has a long history of outreach to immigrant communities, which he described as a cornerstone of their ministry. Asked about Trump’s immigration policies, which now affect places of worship and schools, Rev. Karpen expressed disappointment, citing a lack of understanding of both scripture and the Constitution. “Scripture says, ‘Welcome the stranger, for you were a stranger once in a foreign land.’ It also speaks of Jesus as a refugee, fleeing with his family to Egypt for safety from an oppressive regime.”
When asked about the challenges of advocating for immigrant communities, Rev. Karpen emphasized his church’s commitment to its principles. "We’re doing what we’ve always done, following the Gospel and Jesus’ mandate to extend ourselves to those who are afraid and in need. We’re not trying to defy the law; we’re trying to follow our religious principles."
He also offered advice to others who feel called to help but worry about legal risks. “There are clear boundaries around what I.C.E. can and cannot do. We’ll continue to follow legal guidelines while serving those in need—families seeking safety and a better life, just like my ancestors once did.”
Meanwhile, in Detroit, Rev. Paul Perez and Rev. Dr. Jill Hardt Zundel of Central United Methodist Church, another Justice-Seeking Congregation, spoke out about the administration’s latest executive orders, calling them “cruel.” Central has a long history of offering sanctuary, including housing the Rranxburgaj family for three years after they fled persecution in Albania. With new policies allowing ICE to enter churches and arrest immigrants, Perez warned of the devastating impact. “The only effect it will have is to strike fear into our communities, terrorizing another generation,” he said. “We will continue to stand as a sanctuary for all people.”
Despite the growing risks, both congregations, along with many others throughout the connection, remain unwavering in their commitment to immigrant justice. They are actively engaging their communities in dialogue, providing resources, and ensuring that families facing deportation know they are not alone.
“We’ve housed many families seeking asylum, and we’re going to continue to do that,” Perez affirmed.
