Florida’s Faithful Face Immigration Anxiety: Pastors Speak Out
In the heart of Florida, a wave of anxiety is sweeping through the Latino evangelical community, as pastors grapple with the implications of stringent immigration policies and the emotional toll they take on their congregations. Agustín Quiles, leading an advocacy group for Latino evangelicals, is on the front lines, listening to the fears expressed by pastors who reach out to him for support.
Many pastors are worried about the safety of their youth, who hesitate to attend school for fear of being intercepted by immigration agents. The ripple effects are felt throughout the community, with families opting to stay away from church services, fearing that their presence may attract unwanted attention. Quiles often hears the distress in their voices, as they share stories of families who have vanished from the pews, no longer feeling secure in their faith community.
One pastor recently confided in Quiles about a key leader in his church—a Colombian national who is undocumented. This leader, described as irreplaceable, embodies the challenges faced by many congregations: how to support and protect those who contribute significantly to the church while navigating a climate of fear.
The political landscape in Florida has intensified these concerns. Under Governor Ron DeSantis, the state has enacted aggressive immigration laws that many believe go too far, criminalizing the presence of undocumented immigrants and mandating local law enforcement to assist federal agents in detaining individuals. These policies have fostered an atmosphere of fear, particularly among Hispanic congregations, many of whom have members that are undocumented.
Blas Ramírez, a bishop overseeing several congregations in the state, articulates the gravity of the situation: "In Florida, there’s a terrible fear." With an estimated one-third of his congregants being undocumented, Ramírez has witnessed a decline in church attendance. Venezuelans who might have worshipped last Sunday chose to stay home, absorbing news of federal authorities invoking outdated laws to deport immigrants.
The political backing for these immigration policies has left many Latino evangelicals feeling betrayed. Many supported Donald Trump during his presidency, drawn by his conservative stances on issues like abortion and traditional family values. However, as the reality of his immigration policies unfolds, disillusionment is setting in. Pastors express regret, feeling that their support has led to harm within their own communities.
Pastor Gabriel Salguero, who leads The Gathering Place in Orlando, emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to immigration. "We agree with the deportation of violent criminals and securing the border," he states, "but we are concerned that the rhetoric does not match the reality." The increase in arrests of non-criminals, including individuals with minor infractions, reflects a troubling trend that many church leaders find alarming.
The recent surge in arrests is not just a statistic; it represents real lives affected by the harsh realities of immigration enforcement. Salguero recounts how a church guitarist was arrested, leaving behind a U.S.-citizen wife and child. This personal connection underscores the urgency of the situation, as churches are forced to consider the safety and security of their members.
As the church community grapples with these changes, leaders are encouraging prayer and advocacy. Luis Ávila, director of Hispanic ministries for the International Pentecostal Holiness Church, emphasizes the importance of intercession for lawmakers: "I ask God to sensitize the hearts and minds of these lawmakers." This call for compassion reflects a desire for a more humane approach to immigration—one that aligns with the biblical mandate to care for the stranger and the oppressed.
Amidst the fear, there is a call to action. Pastors are discussing legal rights, church security, and plans for their congregations in the event of detentions. This proactive approach is essential in a climate where uncertainty looms large. Quiles and other leaders are working tirelessly to advocate for policies that reflect Christian values of love and inclusion.
As the situation continues to evolve, Florida’s Latino evangelicals remain steadfast in their faith, seeking to bridge the gap between their beliefs and the realities they face. The church is a place of refuge and strength, and despite the challenges, these leaders are committed to standing up for their communities, advocating for justice, and ensuring that every member feels valued and protected.
In a time of division and fear, the voices of Florida’s pastors resonate with a message of hope and resilience, reminding us all of the power of faith in the face of adversity.