Dear People of St. James’,
The Commission on Hispanic-Latino Ministries of the Diocese of Texas has established an emergency fund to assist families in our congregations that are being affected by deportations. This is one concrete way to live into the spirit of the resolution “Migration with Dignity” adopted by the 176th Diocesan Council.
Data we received from our Hispanic congregations indicate a drop in attendance ranging from 30% to 60%, as families navigate the fears of venturing from home to attend church. Already we have heard from clergy and lay leaders about Episcopalians who have been arrested or deported or who have lost their jobs. To date, we know that more than 12 families in our churches have had a family member arrested/deported or have lost their employment. The federal threat of church raids and the recent actions of the state of Texas in Cleveland are having a negative impact on Episcopalians in our diocese, even on families and individuals who are not undocumented. The Migration with Dignity Fund incarnates our commitment to stand together with our siblings in Christ who are suffering.
The Migration with Dignity fund will be used to provide emergency assistance for housing (rent/utilities), food, and transportation (e.g., a car or insurance payment). Each Spanish-speaking congregation in the diocese has already made a pledge to contribute to this fund, and St. James’/Iglesia de Santiago is not an exception.
If you would like to give, send a check to St. James’ with “Migration with Dignity” in the memo line, or use PayPal through our Give Page.
Let us share with one another in this time of need.
Rev. Eileen
