God’s call to neighborly love for the sake of those in need is unequivocal. Migrants and refugees are our neighbors. Exodus 22:21 – “You shall not wrong or oppress a resident alien; for you were aliens in the land of Egypt.” and Romans 12:13 – “… Extend hospitality to strangers …” are two of many exhortations to care for sojourners in Scripture.
The June 2017 Northeast Iowa Synod Assembly adopted a resolution “Responding to the plight of Immigrants and Refugees.”
This resolution led to establishment of an AMMPARO Welcoming Network in this synod for the purpose of mutual support and information exchange. It also invites congregations to implement the ELCA AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation, and Opportunities) strategy in ways that fit their own contexts.
For example, congregations can:
- Pray for migrant children and their families as they escape violence and economic uncertainty.
- Advocate for just and humane policies towards migrant children and families on the state and national level.
- Accompany migrant children and families living in our communities, those being held in detention, and those at risk of deportation.
- Register as an AMMPARO Welcoming Congregation. In addition to committing to the actions listed above, a Welcoming Congregation identifies a member of the congregation with a working knowledge of Spanish to offer welcome to guests. This person refers guests to medical, legal and pastoral resources.
How to Get Involved
Join the “NE Iowa Synod AMMPARO Network” group on Facebook to gather information, and connect with other congregations exploring ways to respond to the growing immigration and refugee crisis.
Learn more about the AMMPARO strategy online: www.elca.org/AMMPARO.
Contact Pastor Kristen Corr Rod for more information about the synod’s AMMPARO Welcoming Network and how to become an AMMPARO Welcoming congregation.
