Mennonite Church USA Releases Follow-Up to Churchwide Statement on Abuse of Child Migrants

Mennonite Church USA has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting immigrant communities through a follow-up to its Churchwide Statement on the Abuse of Child Migrants. The statement, passed by the Delegate Assembly on July 6, outlines seven key commitments, including advocating for those in sanctuary and supporting families affected by deportation. The resolution reflects the denomination’s ongoing engagement with immigration issues, emphasizing solidarity with immigrant communities and challenging policies that separate families.

During the 2019 Mennonite convention in Kansas City, Missouri, various congregations and organizations shared strategies for supporting immigrants. Delegates also called for increased resources and actions to address the current immigration crisis. These efforts highlight the denomination’s focus on practical responses to systemic challenges faced by migrants, particularly children.

Rosa Ortez Cruz, who has been in sanctuary since 2018 through a partnership between Chapel Hill Mennonite Fellowship and The Church of Reconciliation, described sanctuary as a form of civil disobedience. Isaac Villegas, pastor of Chapel Hill Mennonite Fellowship, explained that sanctuary involves using a memo to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from entering church premises. This practice underscores the church’s stance against policies that prioritize deportation over compassion.

Edith Espinal, another individual in sanctuary at Columbus Mennonite Church since 2017, has faced legal consequences for overstaying her deportation date. ICE recently issued a fine of $497,777 against Espinal and others in sanctuary, including Ortez Cruz. Joel Miller, pastor at Columbus Mennonite Church, noted the broader implications of these actions, highlighting the extreme measures taken by ICE to deport undocumented individuals within local communities.

John Garland, pastor at San Antonio Mennonite Church, participated in a training session at MennoCon19 focused on welcoming immigrants. He emphasized the importance of recognizing abuse and family separation as national issues, not just border-related concerns. The church’s experience with individuals like Espinal has deepened its understanding of the impact of immigration policies on families.

The Mennonite Church USA continues to advocate for policies that align with its values of justice, mercy, and service. Through sanctuary efforts, public statements, and community engagement, the denomination seeks to embody its commitment to welcoming the stranger and protecting the vulnerable. This work reflects a broader call to action rooted in faith and a desire to uphold the dignity of all people.

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