Last week, Bishop Emily Hartner shared a letter with the rostered ministers and synod authorized ministers(SAMs) of the North Carolina Synod, directing congregations to timely resources, “Amid the recent escalation of Customs and Border Patrol operations across our state that has created fear and confusion and upended the day-to-day lives of individuals in communities across our synod, we at the synod office are aware that our leaders and congregations are also feeling confusion and fear. While we do not claim to be experts ourselves, we have been collecting resources that we hope you will find valuable at this difficult time.”

Even as circumstances change day to day, there is much we can do:

• Pray for our neighbors.
• Call state and local leaders.
• Know the law and consider Guidance for Places of Worship. 
• Consider our call as a sanctuary denomination. As Lutherans, we believe that, while we are formed by and for community, moral discernment is first and foremost a personal and individual responsibility.
• Verify news and stop misinformation.
• Consider resources and training from trusted organizations. Collaboration in the body of Christ allows us to learn from those who bring deep experience and wisdom.
  • Upcoming Trainings and Events from Siembra NC and Make NC Work
  • ELCA AMMPARO Know Your Rights
  • Carolina Migrant Network
  • ELCA Social Message on Immigration

This is a complex matter. If you or your congregation are looking for guidance on a particular issue or question, reach out to Pastor Michael Dickson directly. If you know about additional resources to recommend to others, please share those with Pastor Michael as well so that they might be passed along.