Walking Together
People in our community remain fearful and in need due to the recent increased ICE presence and activity. Our faith calls us to care for the vulnerable among us, and as members of the Body of Christ, we stand together, and we will renew our commitment to live out God’s second-greatest commandment, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39). We do this in “thought, word, and deed,” by committing to the mandate of the Gospel, following the teachings of Jesus, and educating and equipping ourselves to be advocates for justice.
Read Bishop Brown’s update on how we’re helping our immigrant neighbors from Feb. 3 here. Donate to the fund mentioned in the bishop’s message below.
How the Episcopal Diocese of Maine is responding:
- Bishop Brown joined 153 bishops from across The Episcopal Church in calling for action in response to state-sanctioned violence and asking “Whose dignity matters?” Read it here.
- Encouraging faith leaders to sign a letter in response to ICE operations in Maine. Read it here.
- We’re praying. Join us for Diocesan-wide online compline led by our clergy on Mondays at 7 p.m. on Jan. 26, Feb. 2, and Feb. 9. Join on our YouTube channel. Find particular, relevant prayers that you can use at home and in your church here.
- We’re raising money, as we do for any emergency or relief project. Your donations made here will be used to defray the expense of legal services and to support the many organizations and people assisting with food and rent and support who are the Love of God incarnate. No gift is too small and no gift is too big.
- We’re demonstrating and peacefully protesting at rallies
- We’re contacting our legislators
Some of the resources from The Episcopal Church.
- Witness Weekly Prayers: Weekly prayers are available as we seek God’s guidance and discern how each of us can respond.
- Episcopal Church Immigration Calls, 1-1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays: Join to learn about the changing landscape of U.S. immigration, refugee, and migration policy.
- Episcopal Church ‘Protesting Faithfully’ toolkit: The Episcopal Church offers practical resources and spiritual grounding for those wishing to stand in solidarity with vulnerable neighbors at protests and demonstrations. Find links to nonviolence training and resources, as well as downloadable prayers, songs, and Scripture readings.
TIPS FROM PORTLAND-AREA MULTI-FAITH CLERGY GROUP – JAN. 16
Please contact Susan Sherrill Axelrod, Director of Communications and Engagement, if you (or your church) gets press requests.
Please inform the diocese if you experience ICE presence onsite. Your best contact will be Teresa Pinney, Canon to the Ordinary, 207-772-1953 ext. 132.
Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in Heaven.” Together, through prayer and action, we can become that bright light for vulnerable communities in Maine.