Bishop Issues Pastoral Letter About Immigration Crisis

The Rt. Rev. Carlye J. Hughes, the Bishop of Newark, issued a pastoral letter in response to the recent actions of the federal government impacting migrants.

The Executive Order rescinding protected status for churches, schools, and hospitals was shocking and had immediate impact in Northern New Jersey. The loss of safe spaces is especially grievous to churches. The church has been, is now, and will always be God’s house. The church is always home, for all of God’s people, at all times, regardless of circumstance or status. To treat it as one more secular place to bring harm to God’s people is the direct opposite of the teachings of Jesus Christ and ignores the freedoms of religion enshrined in the First Amendment.

The diocese has begun working with clergy and leaders, particularly people of color and those who serve them, on how to in the event of an encounter. St. Mark’s leadership is participating in this training, and will be meeting with ministry groups to understand their individual needs and address particular concerns.

RESOURCES:

• Pastoral letter in English | Spanish | Korean
• Immigration Guidelines for Congregations
• “Know Your Rights” cards in multiple languages