Church's statement on immigration reform

The faith community of First Presbyterian Church of Elgin, in seeking to live out God's call for compassion and justice in our world, respectfully asks our congressional representatives to vote for comprehensive immigration reform this year. As Christians, we believe our faith calls us to view all people regardless of citizenship status as made in the “image of God” and deserving of respect; to show compassion for the stranger and love and mercy for our neighbor; and to balance the rule of law with the call to oppose unjust laws and systems when they violate human dignity.

These biblical principles compel us to support immigration reform legislation that is consistent with humanitarian values, supports unification of families, provides a pathway to legal status for immigrant workers already in the U.S., expands legal avenues for workers to enter the U.S. with their rights and due process fully protected, and examines solutions to address the root causes of migration.

As a faith community, we advocate for the common good and for those who would not otherwise have a voice. We believe the current U.S. immigration system is broken and reform is necessary. Please help to make sure our nation has a comprehensive immigration reform law that includes the above elements passed by the end of this year.

The Session of First Presbyterian Church

Kurt A. Buckardt

Clerk of Session

Elgin