Have questions?
We invite you to return soon to see exciting new resources on this page. In the meantime, if you have questions or seek specific resources, please contact Paul Perez.
About us
The United Methodist Church has a long history of concern for social justice. Wesley and the early Methodists expressed their opposition to societal ills such as slavery, smuggling, inhumane prison conditions, alcohol abuse, and child labor.
We believe that salvation entails renewal of both individuals and the world. Our faithful response to God’s saving grace has both a personal and social dimension as we grow in “holiness of heart and life.” By practicing spiritual disciplines — “works of piety” such as prayer, Bible study, participation in corporate worship and communion — we grow and mature in our love for God. By engaging in acts of compassion and justice — “works of mercy” such as visiting the sick and those in prison, feeding the hungry, advocating for the poor and marginalized — we live out our love for God through service to our neighbor. “Our love of God is always linked with love of our neighbor, a passion for justice and renewal in the life of the world” (Book of Discipline 2012, p. 51).
Stand With Migrants Seeking Refuge in the U.S.
Since mid-October, caravans of migrants have been traveling north from Central America through Mexico. The group includes people of all ages, including families and children – many of whom are escaping violence and poverty and seeking asylum in the U.S. and Mexico.
The General Board of Church and Society is joining in “Love Knows No Borders: A Moral Call for Migrant Justice,” organized by the American Friends Service Committee from December10-18, 2018, to stand in solidarity with the migrant exodus and all who seek refuge and asylum in the U.S.
This national week of action for migrant justice is calling on the U.S. to end the detention and deportation of immigrants, respect the human right to migrate and seek asylum, and end the militarization of the border.
Here are ways you can learn, give, and act during this week of action.
Love knows no borders
december 10-18, 2018
LEARN
United Methodist statements on migration
- “Global Migration and the Quest for Justice” The 2016 Book of Resolutions of the United Methodist Church
- “Welcoming the Migrant to the U.S." The 2016 Book of Resolutions of the United Methodist Church
- “Immigration Fact and Faith Card”
GIVE
You and your congregation can financially support United Methodist ministries with migrants in two ways:
UMCOR Global Migration
This UMCOR fund addresses the global refugee migration crisis through grants. UMCOR staff are currently partnering with United Methodists congregations, ministries, and organizations in communities on both sides of the U.S. and Mexico border.
Give online here.
If you are sending funds in 2018, please make your check out to either the Detroit Conference or West Michigan Conference with Global Migration in the memo. If you are sending funds in 2019, make your check out to the Michigan Conference. Please mail all checks to: Treasury, Administrative Services & Benefits, 1161 East Clark Rd, Suite 212, DeWitt, MI 48820
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Justice for Our Neighbors Michigan JFON MI is a United Methodist related immigration legal services provider with locations in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Metro Detroit, and Traverse City. JFON MI provides legal representations for asylum seekers, refugee green card applications, and victims of crime, trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic abuse. Give online here. (https://jfonmi.org/donate/) Mail a check made out to Justice for Our Neighbors Michigan to 2000 West 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025
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ACT
Act in San Diego
The national week of action will commence with a Day of Action in San Diego, CA on December 10th where more than 100 faith leaders from all over the country will take part in a nonviolent direct action at the U.S.-Mexico border in San Diego, California. The event will kick off a week of actions in communities across the U.S., calling for an end to border militarization and for humane immigration policies that respect the rights and dignity of all people.
If you are interested in traveling to San Diego to participate in the December 10 action, please contact the Rev. Paul Perez
Act in Your Local Community
Host a Solidarity Action, Community Press Conference, or Prayer Vigil during the week of December 10-18
Make sure to register your event or sign up to attend a Solidarity Action – Register here
Post pictures and videos on the Michigan Conference Facebook page
For resources to create a solidarity action please download the following documents:
Love Knows No Borders Solidarity Action Tool Kit
Love Knows No Borders UM Resources
Act in Your Congregation
Address migrant justice during your Worship Services and/or your other congregational activities between Sunday, December 10 (International Human Right Day) – Monday, December 18 (International Migrants Day).
Post pictures and videos on the Michigan Conference Facebook page
For worship resources please download the following documents:
Walking Toward Hope: Advent Devotional
Myths & Realities GBCS Border Delegation Discussion Guide