During the Advent season, Christian immigrant congregations in Southern California have reported concerns regarding immigration enforcement actions, as observed in various communities.
Impact on West Los Angeles Congregation
An Iranian asylum-seeker, identified as Mike, expressed apprehension related to immigration enforcement activities. He requested anonymity to prevent potential impacts on his immigration case, having converted to Christianity after fleeing Iran. Mike reported feeling insecure following regional enforcement actions, including arrests near a church with a significant Iranian membership.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that enforcement actions at churches require secondary approval and are intended to be infrequent. Despite this, leaders of Mike's congregation, which includes many Iranian parishioners, requested anonymity for their church. The pastor noted an observed decrease in members willing to pray in Farsi publicly, citing fear.
Baldwin Park United Methodist Church
East of Los Angeles, Pastor Toña Rios of Baldwin Park United Methodist Church stated that approximately 80% of her congregation consists of immigrants, many without legal status. The church previously provided shelter for newly arrived immigrants, a practice now symbolized by a tent displayed in the sanctuary.
Rios indicated that some congregants advocate for limiting interaction with external authorities. She, however, encourages a stance of welcome, drawing parallels to the Advent theme of preparation and openness.
Congregant Experiences and Perspectives
Royi Lopez, a U.S. citizen of Latina descent and a longtime member of the church, described feeling vulnerable due to her background and expressed concerns for undocumented relatives. Lopez connected these fears to the narrative of Mary and Joseph seeking shelter, emphasizing the theme of eventual welcome despite initial rejections.
At Baldwin Park United Methodist Church, the hymn "All Earth is Hopeful," which addresses themes of liberation and justice, is sung during Advent services.