The Hispanic/Latino Task Force of the South Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church condemns President Donald Trump’s executive order on immigration and refugee resettlement. As Christians, we welcome immigrants and refugees from all over the world, regardless of national origin, race, ethnicity or religion, as we daily seek to follow Christ’s example of radical hospitality.
The United Methodist Church’s 2016 Book of Resolutions (¶165.6028) states: “People beyond the Christian community deserve no less hospitality than Christians extend to themselves.” God’s grace, love and mercy does not envelop only those who are Christian, and neither should ours. We have an obligation to care for all people. Our country, which consists of immigrants from around the world, should not take up its welcome mat and close its doors to those seeking refuge and safety.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Therefore, what is our response to injustice?
The Book of Resolutions (¶165.6028) suggests that the Christian Church should respond in the following ways to the injustice facing refugees and immigrants:
- Provide real help for refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants;
- Engage in strong, coordinated advocacy on migration issues and on behalf of actions that overcome poverty, war and other causes leading to the displacement and marginalization of people; and
- Organize through institutional channels and prepare educational resources for the achievement of these objectives.
As asked of each United Methodist in baptism: “Will you resist evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?”
Our prayer is that your response is the same today as it was on the day of your baptism: “I will.”
We encourage you to reach out through such organizations as Lutheran Services Carolinas, where you can learn how your church can assist refugees who are resettling, co-sponsor and volunteer your support for refugees, and gain a greater understanding of the plight of refugees, including those from Syria.
May we all continue to live into our baptismal covenants as we seek to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God.
