Solitary Communion Reflects Growing Fear
Doris Aguirre, an undocumented immigrant living in Chicago for 25 years, now takes communion alone at home. Her church moved its Spanish-language services online due to fear of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. Aguirre’s deportation order, the result of a missed court date, underscores the risks many immigrants face. Like Aguirre, thousands of undocumented immigrants are retreating from public religious life.
End of Sensitive Locations Policy Fuels Anxiety
On his first day in office, President Donald Trump ended the policy protecting churches, schools, and hospitals from immigration enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security said this would prevent “criminals” from hiding in religious spaces. Many immigrants and church leaders see the move as indiscriminate and damaging. Since then, fear has led to plummeting church attendance, especially among Hispanic congregants.
Churches Respond with Caution and Outreach
Some churches have made parts of their property private to raise legal barriers to ICE entry. Others have started offering home communion, legal advice, and even meal delivery. In Los Angeles, the Catholic Archdiocese expanded its services to reach people who were too afraid to leave their homes. However, pastors report that the emotional toll and logistical burden are straining congregations.
Lawsuit Claims Religious Rights Violated
A coalition of Protestant denominations has filed a lawsuit against the administration. They argue that stripping churches of their previous sanctuary status violates immigrants’ First Amendment rights. The government contends that fear stems from misinformation, not policy changes. A Massachusetts federal court is currently considering the case.
Divided Faith Communities and Political Silence
Progressive and immigrant-focused churches have mobilized to support affected families. Meanwhile, many white evangelical leaders have remained silent, concerned about alienating Trump-supporting congregants. Some pastors, like Ken Peters of Patriot Church, support the crackdown, equating illegal entry with sin. In contrast, Hispanic pastors report attendance drops of up to 70% following ICE activity near churches.
Source:
Immigrant faithful turn to virtual sermons and home communion amid Trump crackdown
Photo by Diocese of Spokane on Unsplash
About Post Author
