IMMIGRANT & REFUGEE MINISTRIES
Both the Diocese of North Carolina and the broader Episcopal Church have consistently supported compassionate, comprehensive immigration reform that respects the dignity of individuals, the sanctity of families and our scriptural mandate to care for the strangers among us.
This collection of resources is designed to provide resources for churches ministering with immigrant and refugee populations and to explain the diocese’s and The Episcopal Church’s stances on immigration and immigration reform.
RESOURCES FOR THE CURRENT MOMENT
In response to concerns we’ve heard from church leaders about their local immigrant and refugee communities, the diocese has gathered some resources to help you support your parishioners and communities.
The information on this page does NOT constitute legal advice. Churches should consult legal counsel for legal advice. Your legal rights depend on the specific facts of each situation and are subject to change.
As a safety precaution, we advise churches against broadcasting Spanish-language livestreams on public channels and ceasing public advertisements for events–like food distribution–that aggregate lots of people in a public setting. Instead, use informal and internal channels to spread the word. Follow the guidance of local leaders within immigrant and refugee populations on the safest ways to communicate information about programs and resources.
What happens if Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) shows up at our church?
From The Episcopal Church
If agents show up with a warrant seeking entry to private areas of the church, don’t invite them in. Ask to see the warrant. If it is a judicial warrant (see sample below; signed by a judge and filed in a court), verify that it correctly specifies your location. Call a lawyer right away and help people remain calm while agents perform their duties.
If agents hold an administrative (Department of Homeland Security) warrant (see sample below), they cannot enter private areas of a church unless someone gives them consent to enter. Ask them to wait outside while you call a lawyer for advice on how to proceed.
Agents with either type of warrant can enter public areas of the church without consent and make arrests. If this happens, focus on keeping people safe and as calm as possible.
