Joint Statement Calls for Balance Between Security and Compassion
Leaders from 13 ethnic groups within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) issued a united statement advocating for compassionate immigration policies. They support border security and legal immigration but emphasize the need to avoid demonizing those fleeing persecution. The statement recommends fines or alternative penalties instead of deportation for undocumented immigrants.
Diverse Coalition Highlights Concerns Over Deportation Policies
Sixteen leaders representing over 10,900 churches signed the statement. They include leaders from Hispanic, Haitian, African American, Asian, and African SBC fellowships. The group voiced concern over recent immigration changes that could affect more than 1.6 million immigrants, including the end of humanitarian protections for many Haitians and others.
Immigration Crackdowns Threaten Church Attendance and Religious Liberty
Ethnic leaders said fear among immigrant congregants has increased due to threats of mass deportation and uncertainty over enforcement inside churches. They report declining attendance and warn that access to spiritual care is being compromised. The leaders stress that churches should remain safe spaces for worship and ministry.
Call for Advocacy and Protection of Immigrant Rights
The statement urges churches to advocate for immigrants returning to countries plagued by violence and instability. It asks fellow Southern Baptists to stand for religious liberty and immigrant rights, calling deportation without due consideration inhumane. They request churches urge the government to allow alternatives, such as fines.
ERLC and SBC Leaders Echo Support and Caution
President of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, Brent Leatherwood, thanked the ethnic leaders. He acknowledged the administration’s intent to secure borders but warned that fear among legal immigrants undermines this goal. Leatherwood and others call for more transparent government communication to ensure churches can continue their ministry without fear.
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SBC ethnic fellowships issue statement on immigration
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