About this project
The Courageous Communities Project started as a Solidarity Grant from the United Methodist Committee on Relief. The name comes from the courage that Ruth had as an immigrant to provide for her family and the courageous community that formed to welcome her and support her. The goal of the project is to resource church leaders wanting to support immigrants now.
The current situation in this country is not welcoming to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Immigrants are being targeted, mistreated, and traumatized. Where is the church? What can the church do? How can local churches build courageous communities that welcome and support immigrants? This project can help your local church in finding your next right step.
Click the resources button to see a wide range of immigration materials available for your local church. Also, find out where to contribute to this project and others.
Read conference news articles about the Courageous Communities Project.
Email consultant
Not sure where to begin or how to proceed in advocacy for our immigrant Brothers and Sisters? Contact us for personalized guidance on how to move forward.
Submit Inquiry To ConsultantsChanging the Narrative
A key goal of the Courageous Communities Project is to change the narrative around immigration. Loving our neighbor is a biblical mandate. Providing hospitality, love, and community to the sojourner is a way to live that out.
Leviticus 19:33-34 says: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.”
The United Methodist Church Social Principles also call for us to support immigrants. The United Methodist Church Social Principles says, “As part of the global community, the Church is called to advocate for humane migration policies and provide care for displaced persons.”
Project Offerings
The Courageous Communities Project has three types of offerings.
Consultation/Coaching
Our team offers consultations and coaching sessions to help your church find its next right step. Fill out the inquiry form for more information.
Resources
Our team curated a toolbox to resource your congregation. See the toolbox page for more information.
Trainings
Our team can provide a training workshop for your church, tailored to your specific context. Fill out the inquiry form for more information. The types of trainings include:
- Know Your Rights
- How to Be an Ally
- Creating Courageous Communities
Examples of Courageous Communities
Many United Methodist churches have created courageous communities in Michigan. United Methodist churches have provided safe spaces for immigrants. They have done Bible studies. They have provided furniture for immigrants. They have provided sewing classes and ESL classes. They have received Mustard Seeds Migration Grants. There are many different ways to be a courageous community. Take your next step. Read these inspiring news stories of local churches in Michigan supporting their immigrant neighbors.
Taking the Next Step
Where is your church on this journey? Are you just getting started? Are you already on the path? Or do you wish to go further? This project is there to help you find your next right step.
Contact us at [email protected]
