Appeals court sides with Episcopal Church and interfaith partners in immigration enforcement lawsuit

The federal appeals court has ruled in favor of The Episcopal Church and 26 ecumenical and interfaith partners in a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s removal of “sensitive locations” protections for houses of worship in immigration enforcement. The three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit determined that a lower court had incorrectly dismissed the plaintiffs’ claim of standing. The faith-based groups argued that intensified immigration enforcement actions had led some worshippers to avoid attending services.

The lower court had ruled in April 2025 that the plaintiffs had not sufficiently shown an imminent threat from the new enforcement policy. The appellate court reversed that decision, sending the case back to the U.S. District Court for further consideration of the merits of the plaintiffs’ arguments. The court’s opinion noted that the harm faced by congregants was traceable to the administration’s policy changes.

Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe and House of Deputies President Julia Ayala Harris issued a joint statement following the appellate court’s ruling. They emphasized the importance of protecting religious freedom and the impact of immigration enforcement on congregations. “In The Episcopal Church, we cannot truly be ourselves when some cannot freely worship with us,” they said, highlighting the church’s commitment to civic engagement and the dignity of all people.

The lawsuit was filed by an interfaith coalition of religious denominations and organizations in February 2025 after the Trump administration rescinded a policy that had protected houses of worship, schools, and hospitals from immigration enforcement. Since then, the administration has increased its efforts to detain and deport immigrants, including aggressive operations in targeted cities. These actions have led to protests, community tensions, and at times, violent confrontations.

The court’s decision underscores the ongoing legal and ethical debates surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on religious communities. The case reflects broader concerns about the role of faith institutions in advocating for justice and the protection of vulnerable populations. The Episcopal Church and its partners continue to seek legal remedies to ensure that houses of worship remain safe spaces for worship and community.

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