This May 28 advocacy update from ELCA Witness in Society & AMMPARO warns that Congress may soon consider major new ICE/CBP funding, a USCIS memo could force many green card applicants to leave the U.S. to apply, and the administration’s proposed refugee-ceiling increase would prioritize white South Africans over other refugees already waiting for resettlement.

A new resource from ELCA Advocacy and ELCA AMMPARO titled “You Shall Also Love the Stranger,” offers history, Bible study, reflection questions and action steps related to for-profit immigration detention. Join related webinar on Wednesday, June 24, from 1-1:30 p.m. EDT.

A federal judge temporarily blocked warrantless ICE enforcement actions at certain Lutheran, Baptist, and MCC churches, a win for religious freedom and sanctuary ministry work that aligns with the ELCA’s advocacy for immigrant dignity and safe faith-based spaces.

Created in the Image of God affirms that every person bears God-given dignity that cannot be earned or lost. Rooted in Scripture and Lutheran social teaching, it equips individuals and congregations to respond with compassion, courage, and advocacy that honors our shared humanity.

From guest blog by Raed AbuJries, Program Manager, AMMPARO US Network, Education and Communications: “As people of faith, we have to be honest: this isn’t just a political debate. It’s a spiritual one. The way we talk about and treat the marginalized is a gut-check for our faith.”

‘Here I Pod’ kicks off Season 3 with "Immigration, Sensitive Locations, and Faithful Actions," featuring special guests from ELCA Ammparo, The Border Church/La Iglesia Fronteriza and ELCA Advocacy.

See images from the AMMPARO Candlelight Prayer Vigil on Wednesday, July 30 at Peace Park as part of the ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix.

Please promote! Candlelight Prayer Vigil on Wednesday, July 30 at 9:00 pm. Lutherans from Churchwide Assembly, judicatory heads, faith leaders, Arizona legislators and local congregations are invited to attend.

Here I Pod is a podcast series from ELCA Advocacy bringing together voices of faith-based advocates caring for all people and creation. In Episode 5 you’ll hear from faith-based advocates meeting our current moment by supporting immigrants and refugees during a time of rapid shifts and changes. Host: Regina Q. Banks of Lutheran Office of Public Policy - California.

Through this guide, AMMPARO seeks to educate congregations and others about their rights under the law to help them better prepare for encounters with immigration officials.

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest offer 3 steps you can take today to stand with refugees in Arizona.

This webinar will offer some basics on the US immigration system, "Know Your Rights" information, and practical suggestions for ministry leaders when an undocumented person or recent migrant comes seeking their accompaniment in navigating next steps to address their immigration status, as well as how to handle a situation if ICE comes to their church or ministry.

In times of heightened uncertainty, our immigrant neighbors need support and accompaniment. The ELCA’s AMMPARO ministry offers critical tools to understand and assert rights during encounters with law enforcement or ICE. This guide includes Red Cards, family preparedness plans, and multilingual resources to help families stay informed and safe.