We are in a challenging, deeply serious, and troubling time. The landscape of immigration policy continues to shift, impacting vulnerable families, children, and individuals in ways that should stir both our faith and our compassion. I want you to know that at Park, we are not just watching—we are preparing. A team is in place, working on our readiness and engagement procedures so we can respond with the love and welcome that the gospel calls us to embody.
I know that many at Park may not be familiar with the broader United Methodist Church, but this moment is an opportunity to see what we stand for. Our commitment to social justice isn’t separate from our faith—it is our faith in action. We believe that following Jesus means standing alongside those who are marginalized, advocating for justice, and creating communities where dignity and compassion are not just ideas but realities. For generations, the UMC has worked for civil rights, refugee resettlement, and immigrant justice because we take seriously the call to love our neighbors—not just in words, but in real, tangible ways.
As part of this commitment, Global Ministries of the UMC recently issued a strong statement, saying, “Global Ministries has strongly denounced the Trump administration’s new immigration policies, calling them morally troubling and contrary to core faith values of compassion and welcome. While framed as efforts to deport criminals, these policies are broadly criminalizing and instilling fear in migrant communities, regardless of legal status.”
This is a time for the church to live out its calling. Global Ministries is urging people of faith to step into action—to refuse fear, to resist indifference, and to actively choose love. There are many ways to be involved—through prayer, volunteering, advocacy, and direct support. To learn more and take action, visit Global Ministries’ Immigration Response.
One final thought: policies shape lives. They determine who is safe, who is welcome, and who is cast aside. We cannot separate policy from people, because laws and decisions impact real families, real children, and real futures. God’s call is clear: welcome the stranger. My prayer is that we at Park Avenue Church will continue to be a place where belonging isn’t just a word we say—it’s a reality we live.
Much love,
Pastor Gregg
