Sometimes it is our instinct to shy away from topics where the congregation may have a diversity of opinion. We may be afraid of exposing existing divisions or angering friends and family. However, important and even difficult discussions have the power to help us grow.
There’s an important distinction between being political and being partisan. As Community of Christ, our call to pursue peace, justice, and the worth of all persons will inevitably intersect with political issues – just as Jesus’s ministry did. When we advocate for the vulnerable or discuss immigration through the lens of our faith values, we aren’t being partisan – we’re being faithful to our mission. The goal isn’t to promote any political party, but rather to thoughtfully apply our enduring principles to real human situations. Our faith should inform our response to current events, even when those events have become politically charged.
Difficult conversations should be handled with care and understanding. Many members may be struggling with grief or anger because of political actions taking place around us. Many, if not most, of us are descendants of immigrants – some may be close relatives or friends of an immigrant and some may be immigrants themselves. Congregations bring together people with diverse and sometimes opposing life experiences.
In order to help guide responsible conversation around this topic, below are several resources:
Statement on Immigration from Community of Christ dated April 2013
https://cofchristmi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Immigration-Statement-English.pdf
Statement on Political Activity from Community of Christ dated September 2020
https://cofchristmi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Political-Activity-in-the-USA.pdf
National Council of Churches resources on immigration:
https://nationalcouncilofchurches.us/immigration-resources/
Sojourners also has good resources available:
https://sojo.net/22-bible-verses-welcoming-immigrants
https://sojo.net/join/campaigns/immigration
Increasing our knowledge about our neighbors’ experiences can help launch us into compassionate mission when we are willing to be moved. Many around us are looking for a space to connect with others who are like-minded. Sharing statements and engaging in action can be tools to invite people into community with us as we seek to make God’s kingdom real in the here and now.
