U.S. Immigration Guidance for Churches & Ministry Leaders

Context and Pastoral Response

Over the past several weeks, Thrive has received numerous inquiries from Christian Reformed congregations across the U.S. whose members have been directly or indirectly affected by recent decisions regarding immigration enforcement and refugee resettlement. Some congregations, long-engaged in refugee resettlement and serving communities with many immigrant and refugee members, now face uncertainty about how their ministries will continue.

Other Christian Reformed congregations have reported significant declines in attendance and participation, as some members live in fear of detention or deportation. Pastors and ministry leaders are grappling with how best to shepherd their congregations through this season of uncertainty and change. Their members are anxious. Their ministries have been disrupted. In response to their expressed need, we offer this resource as one tool that congregations and leaders can use as they seek to minister faithfully in complex and shifting circumstances.

The Christian Reformed Church has consistently affirmed that all people, regardless of ethnicity, background, or legal status, are image bearers of God. Scripture calls us to welcome the stranger in our midst and to extend special care to the most vulnerable in society. The CRCNA’s position statement on immigration reminds us of the need to reach out in hospitality and compassion to immigrant peoples and refugees, and it encourages congregations to demonstrate this concern through actions such as care for those in our midst and advocacy for immigration reform (see the 2010 Synodical Report on the Migration of Workers , Acts of Synod 2010, p. 875, and position statement).

At the same time, it is essential to emphasize that showing compassion to those arriving at our borders does not mean disregarding the government’s authority to regulate immigration and national borders. Civil governments have both the right and the responsibility to oversee immigration policies, but this duty must always be carried out in a way that upholds human dignity and recognizes every person as created in the image of God.

About This Resource & How to Use It

This resource is offered for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Immigration law is highly complex and fact-specific; therefore, we strongly encourage you to consult local counsel and legal aid centers for specific legal guidance. The materials linked below have been carefully vetted by U.S. legal experts with decades of experience and represent a range of organizations actively working to protect migrants' rights from multiple perspectives.

While Thrive staff have also reviewed these materials, it is important to note that since most of the information comes from external organizations, we do not necessarily endorse every statement or link found on their websites.

We also recognize that this guide cannot address every possible scenario or question. If you need further assistance, please contact us at Thrive@crcna.org to connect with our ministry consultant for additional guidance.

The guides are available in English, Spanish, and Korean at the following links for easy reference and download:

U.S. Immigration Guidance Document - English

U.S. Immigration Guidance Document - Spanish

U.S. Immigration Guidance Document - Korean