The following is an article from the Lent 2025 Parish News. For the full Parish News issue, please click below
WHAT WE CAN'T DO IS DO NOTHING
The Social Justice Committee
Over the last few weeks, our national immigration and sanctuary policies and practices have changed drastically, creating immediate concern for, and possible threats to some members of our church community.
But what can we do?
When overbearing and overwhelming things like this happen in the world, that’s the natural question to ask.
The important thing to remember is, it’s not the words themselves, but, rather the intention behind them that can make an impact.
Is it “But what can we do? We’re just a Presbyterian Church in the middle of New Jersey. Can we really change anything?”
Or is it “But what can we do?
We believe, based on our Church’s past actions, that we can’t stand by and watch any harm come to any members of our own church community.
What we will do is work together, with our affected community members, and pool our combined efforts towards a path forward, guided by the history of this house of worship and the words of this passage:
Psalm 146:9 “The LORD watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.”
Over the last month, the Social Justice Committee has met and emailed and texted many times about creating a safe space for all those affected by the new immigration and sanctuary initiatives put in place nationally. Historically, this is a topic that is very close to our congregation’s heart. We have marched about it, we have prayed on it, we have created policy for it. Yet, it’s clear that it’s time to revisit and refresh our policies and actions, given the changes underway. To start, here are some of the things that our committee is working on immediately:
Collecting and disseminating a set of rights that are paramount in situations of confrontation, that individuals and organizations alike should have on hand and know about. Even those not personally affected should be aware of these individual rights, and be ready to speak up and bear witness - training opportunities will be provided. Look for updates to our website, bulletin boards, and a Second Hour Forum.
Furthering our support of sister organizations like Interfaith-RISE (Refugee and Immigrant Services & Empowerment) who are struggling amidst the uncertainty of federal fund-freezing. Thank you to all who responded so very generously to the committee’s appeal. Please continue to hold this organization and its work in your hearts.
Advocating for our community‘s support of the Immigrant Trust Act, to allow New Jerseyans to seek protection and support from state and local agencies without fear of deportation. Increasing trust in public agencies allows all people, regardless of immigration status, to seek public services that are essential to the health, education, and well-being of their families and the broader community. This builds a stronger, fairer, more welcoming community for everyone, which aligns with our church’s mission.
Reminding all of the policies of support for those at risk, that this Church’s Session has voted into place over 6 years ago. Please reach out to our Pastors for more information, especially those who might feel threatened or concerned.
Exploring options for legal assistance, should it be required by members of our church community.
A wise member of the committee reminded us all that this will be a marathon, not a sprint. In that spirit, the Committee will continue to move forward with planning and executing to the best of our collective abilities.
Much easier when it comes from a place of love and community.
For the full issue of the Parish News, please click below